FAR 91.853 — Subsonic Noise Compliance
FAR 91.853 explains the Dec 31, 1999 deadline requiring civil subsonic airplanes in the contiguous U.S. to meet Stage 3, 4, or 5 noise limits.
In Plain English
FAR 91.853 sets the final compliance deadline for noise standards on civil subsonic airplanes operating in the contiguous United States. After December 31, 1999, no one may operate an airplane covered by § 91.801(c) to or from any airport in the lower 48 states unless that airplane has been shown to meet Stage 3, Stage 4, or Stage 5 noise levels.
Key points to remember:
- Applies only to airplanes subject to § 91.801(c) (generally civil subsonic turbojets over 75,000 lbs).
- Geographic scope is the contiguous U.S. — Alaska, Hawaii, and U.S. territories are not covered by this section.
- Older Stage 1 and Stage 2 airplanes can no longer be operated unless they have been hush-kitted, re-engined, or otherwise upgraded to a higher stage.
- A limited exception exists under § 91.873 (special flight authorizations).
Operationally, this rule effectively retired the noisy first- and second-generation jets from U.S. airports, helping reduce community noise around airfields.
Regulation Text
14 CFR § 91.853§ 91.853 Final compliance: Civil subsonic airplanes.
Except as provided in § 91.873, after December 31, 1999, no person shall operate to or from any airport in the contiguous United States any airplane subject to § 91.801(c), unless that airplane has been shown to comply with Stage 3, Stage 4, or Stage 5 noise levels.
[Docket FAA-2015-3782, Amdt. 91-349, 82 FR 46132, Oct. 4, 2017]
Oral Exam Questions a DPE Might Ask
Q1What is the final noise compliance requirement for civil subsonic airplanes operating in the contiguous United States?
Per FAR 91.853, after December 31, 1999, an airplane subject to § 91.801(c) may not operate to or from any airport in the contiguous U.S. unless it has been shown to meet Stage 3, Stage 4, or Stage 5 noise levels.
Q2Are there any exceptions to the Stage 3/4/5 noise compliance rule?
Yes. FAR 91.853 begins with 'Except as provided in § 91.873,' meaning special flight authorizations issued under § 91.873 can permit operations that would otherwise be prohibited.
Q3Does FAR 91.853 apply to flights operating in Alaska or Hawaii?
No. FAR 91.853 applies only to operations to or from airports in the contiguous United States, so it does not cover operations in Alaska, Hawaii, or U.S. territories.
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Related Sections in Part 91