Aircraft noise from Lehigh Valley International (KABE) and overflights is preempted by federal law. Bethlehem has no enforceable aircraft-noise ordinance because 49 U.S.C. Section 40103 vests exclusive sovereignty over navigable airspace in the United States. FAA Part 150 governs airport noise compatibility.
Aircraft noise around Bethlehem is governed by federal law, not the Bethlehem Codified Ordinances. 49 U.S.C. Section 40103 vests exclusive sovereignty over navigable airspace in the United States, and 14 C.F.R. Part 150 sets the FAA's Airport Noise Compatibility Planning process. Lehigh Valley International Airport (KABE), operated by the Lehigh-Northampton Airport Authority in Hanover Township, conducts Part 150 studies and publishes Noise Exposure Maps. Local governments may not impose curfews, altitude rules, or routing requirements; the FAA's preemption is firm under City of Burbank v. Lockheed Air Terminal, 411 U.S. 624 (1973). Article 717 does not reach overflight noise.
Bethlehem has no municipal violation for aircraft noise because federal preemption under 49 U.S.C. Section 40103 and Burbank v. Lockheed precludes local enforcement. Complaints route to the LVIA noise office and the FAA. Ground operations fall under the airport authority.
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See how Bethlehem's aircraft noise rules stack up against other locations.
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