Modest Proposals to Reduce Airport Noise

* In regard to Don Dufford’s letter to the editor, “Don’t Let Eco-Activists Ground the Airport,” Oct. 1: Dufford suggests we stop asking for night curfews as a means of noise relief and just “seek a steady reduction in noise, day and night.” From where is he coming? What is his solution?

Although some planes are now quieter, some are not. The biggest factor I see is the increasing number of flights in and out of Burbank. We must demand a cap on the number of daily flights in and out of the Burbank Airport, as well as reinstate the 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. curfew.

Additionally, pilots should be directed to take off straight over Burbank (south-southeast), rather than turning west immediately on takeoff. By turning before gaining altitude, many flights force their noise burden on neighboring communities such as North Hollywood and Van Nuys. Let’s keep the main thrust of the noise in Burbank, where the airport has always been.

North Hollywood and Burbank already bear the constant (though not as deafening) noise of planes approaching eastbound for landings at Burbank.

Dufford accuses us eco-activists of seeking an “airport death wish.” This is hardly the case. The worst I expect to result from my suggestions is fewer available flights and higher ticket prices. And by the way, I have used and will continue to use the airport myself.

The airport existed long before I bought my house. The noise situation was bearable then but has gotten worse. If the number of flights would be reasonably limited and present technology invested in all aircraft, we might have less of a noise problem than when I bought my home. And no, I do not want the airport closed.

Is that too much to ask?

GREG GOLDEN

Van Nuys