The Background to Propeller Airplane Noise Regulations

The objective of this report is to outline the development of noise standards applicable to light, propeller-driven aircraft. The new noise abatement standards required under the Noise Control Act of 1972 are discussed in regard to their impact on future aircraft designs and their economic effect on the general aviation industry. Since no type certification requirements for noise abatement currently existed for propeller-driven aircraft (other than for those in the transport category), it was necessary to set up a testing procedure to determine how the standards could be modified for such aircraft. Discussed in detail are the noise evaluation measures, testing procedures, and maximum noise level standards.