Pennsylvania Aircraft Noise Federally Preempted Statewide

Under the Federal Aviation Act (49 U.S.C. 40103) and the Airline Deregulation Act, the FAA holds exclusive authority over navigable airspace, flight paths, altitudes, and aircraft noise emissions throughout Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania municipalities and the Commonwealth cannot impose curfews, decibel limits, or routing restrictions on aircraft in flight. Limited authority remains for airport proprietors (such as Philadelphia International, Pittsburgh International, and Harrisburg International) over ground operations on airport property, but only with FAA approval under the Airport Noise and Capacity Act, 49 U.S.C. 47521.

Pennsylvania local ordinances attempting to regulate aircraft noise are unenforceable and subject to federal preemption challenges. Affected residents must pursue FAA Part 150 noise studies or airport proprietor remedies.