Point blank: Jet noise is a b*tch. There’s really no such thing as a quiet airplane overhead. And until commercial airlines come up with a silencer for their engines, jet noise will be a problem for all who must endure it, which includes the residents of communities surrounding Chicago’s airports.
The city received more than 4 million noise complaints in 2015—a number that has increased in recent years after the city began shifting traffic from the older diagonal runways to new parallel east-west runways at O’Hare. But the Chicago Department of Aviation might have a solution.
The Fly Quiet plan (again, quiet flight is not really attainable, but whatever) will alternate planes onto different runways on a week-to-week basis, so as to spread the annoyance of early-morning and late-night jet noise more fairly across the region.
Because if some have to suffer, why not make everyone suffer? *face palm*
The O’Hare Noise Compatibility Commission approved the plan Friday in a 45-5 vote. The plan will now be presented to the Federal Aviation Administration, which would implement it if approved.
If the proposal to balance airplane ruckus exposure is passed by the FAA, those affected by the noise can finally bask in the glory of better slumber and well-heard outdoor barbecue conversations.
We’re sure of it.
For more information, check out the Tribune’s report.
@RianneCoale | rcoale@redeyechicago.com
