New Hampshire Aircraft Noise Federal Preemption Rules

Federal law through the FAA preempts state and local regulation of aircraft in flight, including noise from takeoffs, landings, and overflights. New Hampshire RSA 422 addresses aeronautics and aligns state policy with federal authority. Municipalities cannot impose curfews, altitude limits, or noise caps on aircraft operations. Airport proprietors may impose limited, non-discriminatory noise restrictions on ground operations only with FAA approval under Part 161. Complaints about aircraft noise must be directed to the FAA or airport authority, not local code enforcement. Ground-based airport activities like engine testing may fall under state environmental rules.

No state or local enforcement of aircraft noise is permitted. Violations of FAA noise certification rules are handled by federal authorities through certificate actions or civil penalties.