Aircraft noise regulation in Alabama is preempted by federal law under the Federal Aviation Act and FAA regulations. Cities and counties cannot impose binding restrictions on aircraft operations, flight paths, or in-flight noise levels statewide.
Federal law preempts state and local aircraft noise regulation. The FAA exclusively controls airspace, flight operations, and aircraft noise emissions through 14 CFR Part 36 and the Airport Noise and Capacity Act of 1990 (ANCA). Alabama municipalities cannot impose curfews, altitude restrictions, or operational limits on aircraft in flight. Airport proprietors may adopt non-discriminatory noise abatement procedures, but only with FAA approval under Part 161. Ground-based airport noise (engine run-ups, taxiing) may be subject to limited local regulation. Complaints generally must be directed to the FAA or the airport operator.
Local ordinances attempting to regulate in-flight aircraft noise are void and unenforceable; airport-imposed restrictions without FAA Part 161 approval can be invalidated.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
See how Prichard's aircraft noise rules stack up against other locations.
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