Aircraft noise over Lowell is regulated by the FAA, not the city. Hanscom Field and Manchester-Boston flight paths generate most overflight complaints in the area.
Aircraft operations are regulated exclusively by the Federal Aviation Administration under 14 CFR and federal preemption, meaning the City of Lowell cannot set overflight curfews, altitude limits, or aircraft decibel rules. Lowell sits under approach and departure paths for Hanscom Field (KBED) in Bedford (roughly 10 miles south) and is within the wider airspace of Manchester-Boston Regional (KMHT) to the north and Boston Logan (KBOS) arrivals. Hanscom has a voluntary noise abatement program published by Massport; most general aviation traffic observes a 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. quiet period. Residents bothered by specific flights can file complaints through the Massport Noise Office or the FAA Noise Complaint Portal. City government can serve as an advocate but cannot enforce penalties against aircraft.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Lowell, MA
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