Washington Dulles International Airport provides area residents with world class aviation service, which brings economic strength and vitality to the region. Aircraft noise was given great consideration when Dulles was planned. An airfield buffer is provided on airport property to ensure that close-in residential development does not occur. Loudoun and Fairfax Counties have worked closely with the Airports Authority to provide additional land-use protection through effective planning and zoning. Today, the airport and surrounding communities benefit from these long-range planning efforts as the Airports Authority moves forward in building a fifth runway on the airfield.

Noise Monitoring System
A computerized aircraft noise monitoring system is used for Dulles Airport aircraft. Permanent remote noise monitoring stations have been installed at strategic locations keyed to the primary arrival and departure paths surrounding the Airport. Each noise monitoring station measures and analyzes noise events as they occur. The ability to directly measure aircraft noise at these specific locations helps the Airports Authority to identify the extent of community noise impacts and to plan for the future.

If You Have a Concern
A 24-hour Noise Complaint Telephone Center operates at Dulles's Operations Office. This gives citizens a way to voice their concerns over aircraft noise. The telephone number is 703-572-8215. Usually a duty officer will speak with the caller personally, but if that person is not available, the Center's voicemail will record the complaint. The Manager of the Authority's Noise Abatement Office is also available to discuss noise concerns.