State, FAA May Put Airport Noise Bill in Holding Pattern-July 24, 1986

The Patriot Ledger reported on July 24, 1986, that the state transportation secretary and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) were likely to advise Governor Michael Dukakis not to sign a bill banning night flights at Norwood Airport.

The bill in question had passed the Legislature and was awaiting Dukakis’ signature. However, both the state transportation secretary, Frederick Salvucci, and FAA officials took the position that the bill should be put on hold until the town completed an airport noise study, which had just begun. This decision was based on concerns that the ban could set a precedent and potentially harm Norwood’s interstate commerce.

Gerald Curtin, manager of the FAA’s New England airports division, explained in a letter to the airport commission that the agency would fight the curfew unless the town completed the noise study first. He stated, “We’re worried that it will set a precedent… The town agreed as part of receiving federal financial assistance not to place an undue burden on Norwood interstate commerce or discriminate against operators. It appears the ban will do just that unless we find out what the impact would be.”

The proposed bill would have banned takeoffs and landings at Norwood Airport between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m. This move was seen as a way to address the growing concerns of residents living near the airport, who were affected by the noise generated by aircraft traffic.

Rep. Gregory Sullivan, D-Norwood, co-sponsored the bill with Sen. William Keating, D-Sharon. He expressed his disagreement with Salvucci’s approach, stating that the town at least deserved a chance to try and institute the ban even if it was later overturned. Sullivan argued that the FAA and Massachusetts Aeronautics Commission had consistently resisted efforts by the town to enforce stricter noise controls.

The debate surrounding the airport noise bill highlighted the complex relationship between local authorities and federal agencies in addressing issues related to aviation. The proposed ban on night flights at Norwood Airport served as a catalyst for discussions about the need for effective noise control measures and the importance of balancing the interests of residents with those of the aviation industry.

In the end, the fate of the proposed ban on night flights at Norwood Airport remained uncertain. However, the debate surrounding this issue served as a reminder of the importance of collaboration and compromise in addressing the challenges faced by communities affected by airport noise.

Archival Note: This article has been dynamically reconstructed from the original public record print archives of the Patriot Ledger