Buchanan Field Noise Program

The Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Role in Air Traffic Control

• The FAA’s primary mission is to ensure the safety and efficiency of navigable airspace. The FAA does not have the authority to prohibit aircraft overflights of a particular area unless the operation is unsafe or the aircraft is operated in a manner inconsistent with FAA Regulations.
• Once an aircraft is on the runway or has left the ground, it is in Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) jurisdiction.
• Only the FAA Air Traffic Control Tower (ATCT) can direct an aircraft to change its altitude, flight path or runway assignment. Runway activity is often determined by wind, weather or air traffic conditions.
• All communications with the ATCT are recorded. Researching these recordings allows Airports staff to determine which aircraft are operating in the area and which may be responsible for a complaint.
• The ATCT at Buchanan Field has a three-mile radius control area. Typically, aircraft operating outside of the control area only radio the ATCT if planning on landing or departing from Buchanan Field.
• Aircraft operating outside of the control area are not likely to be identified based on FAA recordings.
• Help the FAA identify unauthorized low-flying aircraft. FAA Reporting Low-Flying Aircraft Brochure
• FAA document AC36-3H (PDF) lists the sound levels for all aircraft.
• Visit the FAA’s noise issues webpage here.
• Visit Noise Quest here for more information.

Submitting a Complaint

The top priority for Contra Costa County Airports is safety. Safety always supersedes noise management. If you witness an aircraft operating extraordinarily low or objectionably loud, Airports staff values your feedback.

In order to make your feedback more useful, please use the Submit a Complaint Form to provide as many details about the experience as possible. This may allow Airports staff to determine which aircraft is causing the disturbance so it can continue to work with pilots on noise abatement procedures. Be sure to include the following:

• Your full name
• Your full address
• The date and time of the disturbance
• The type and color of aircraft (e.g. prop, jet, helicopter)
• Any other information you have regarding the incident.

Aviation Advisory Committee (AAC)

• Established in 1977 to provide advice and recommendations to the Board of Supervisors on aviation issues related to Contra Costa County Airports.
• Works to advance aviation while giving community members living and working near the Airports an opportunity to stay informed on Airport matters.
• Provides a forum for voicing opinions/concerns and vetting policy matters related to Buchanan Field and Byron Airports.
• Meetings are open to the general public and are typically held at 10:00 AM, on the second Thursday of each month, at 550 Sally Ride Drive in Concord, CA.
• Visit the AAC webpage for more information.