The FAA rates the noise generation of aircraft in "Stages". There is progressively tighter restrictions on aircraft noise emmisions depending on the stage of the aircraft. Most Stage 2 aircraft are banned from flying in the USA, including Hawai'i. There is a limit of the number of Stage 3 aircraft that can fly in and out of an airport and there are restrictions on the hours of operation. Soon, I think in 2006, Stage 3 aircraft will have the same restrictions on them as stage 2. Most of the long range aircraft are stage 4. So, hush kits or engine refits are being done. Aircraft that aren't in a position for retrofit are sold to 3rd world countries or are scrapped. If you are serious about the noise at Hilo, get a copy of their FAA mandated noise study from the Airport authority and look at the mix of aircraft and the "noise contours." They should have a plan for noise reduction. I live under the flight path in Federal Way. I also consult at SeaTac. I've got to believe that Hilo has a plan to improve the noise.

I work at the Port Authority doing various projects, on contract. I am not a direct employee. There are lawfirms that specialize in noise abatement law and work with communities to sue Port authorities. Some funds for the lawyers has to come from the communities; the rest they get on contingency if they prevail against the Port Authority. Burien, Des Moines, Normandy Park and Federal Way formed a collation against the third runway at SeaTac and to get a better noise abatement program. They didn't succeed on the runway, but they did expand the noise monitoring and remedy program and influenced how many stage 2 and 3 aircraft could land at SeaTac.

Yeah, and it was the military coming into Hawaii that brought these critters. Now the government won't even help.

Another invasion!