I am writing in response to a letter to the editor having to do with concerns over airport noise near Flying Cloud Airport. I do have empathy for those people living under the departure and arrival ends of the runways, but I believe that it is important to have a well-reasoned discussion concerning the root cause of these issues, rather than simply attempting to claim that the Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC) is doing nothing.
MAC has no regulatory authority over operations at an airport. However, they do have noise abatement programs designed to help with this issue. The responsibility for operations at any airport lies with the FAA.
As a very responsible organization, the FAA developed a guidance document (AC 150/5190-4B) that is meant to inform municipalities about compatible land use near airports. If the people in city planning, and those responsible for approving land zoning, were to follow the recommendations in this document, they would significantly reduce the impact on Eden Prairie residents.
Instead of doing so, we see dense residential development all around this airport, with some of the most recent development within a half-mile of the departure end of runway 10L. Sitting on their back deck provides these people with their own personal airshow every day. Can anyone explain how this is good city planning? Who authorized this? Certainly not someone who cares about Eden Prairie residents.
Since we can’t count on effective city planning, a great solution for the future would be for developers and real estate agents to be required to inform homebuyers that the property they are considering is under the departure/arrival end of a runway at a nearby airport. If a buyer still decides to invest in that property, then they have been duly informed.
In the meantime, as a responsible pilot and flight instructor, I encourage others to follow my example and depart the area for your touch-and-go practice. Give these people a break!
Al Matson, Eden Prairie
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