FAR 91.871 — Noise Compliance Waivers
FAR 91.871 explains how operators request waivers from Stage 2/3 interim noise compliance deadlines, filing timelines, required showings, and waiver limits.
FAR 91.871 lets a U.S. operator or foreign air carrier subject to the interim noise compliance requirements of §§ 91.865 or 91.867 ask the Secretary of Transportation for a waiver from an individual compliance requirement.
Key points to know:
- File early: Applications must be submitted at least 120 days before the compliance date being waived.
- Public interest test: The applicant must show the waiver is in the public interest and provide a credible plan and good faith efforts to comply with §§ 91.865 or 91.867.
- Supporting information in the application should include, as appropriate:
- Balance sheet and cash flow positions
- Composition of the applicant's current fleet
- Delivery position for new airplanes or noise-abatement equipment
- Grounds for grant: The applicant must show compliance is financially onerous, physically impossible, or technologically infeasible, or would adversely affect competition or service to small communities.
- Duration limit: A waiver cannot extend beyond the next interim compliance date.
- Public comment: A summary is published and the public gets at least 14 days to comment.
This matters operationally because it gives operators a structured, time-limited path to keep flying older Stage 2 aircraft while transitioning their fleets to quieter, compliant airplanes.
Five FAA-written-style questions. Instant explanations, every answer cites its source — no account needed.
You are flying VFR in Class E airspace at 8,500 feet MSL during the day. What are your minimum visibility and cloud clearance requirements?