Airplanes’ Oil Stains Homes

Your editorial “Preserving Our Airport Noise Controls” (Nov. 4) was comforting to read, while reminding us that constant pressure must be exerted on public officials to protect the noise level we now supposedly enjoy.

There is, however, one condition that is pointed out in your article that is not always true.

Although agreements dictate the route airplanes are to use during takeoffs to the southwest is to be over the Back Bay, the majority of takeoffs fly directly over homes and schools in the Bluffs on the east side of the Back Bay.

Not only is the noise much greater than allowed, but jet fuel exhaust is coating foliage, roofs, decks and outdoor furniture with a black, oily covering that also tracks onto interior carpet and stains drapes when windows are open.

It is unbelievable that pilots cannot, or will not, follow a prescribed course. Perhaps another lawsuit to recover a loss of property value will encourage county officials to enforce the agreements already in place.

But why should a lawsuit be necessary? Closer attention paid by airport officials and the airlines themselves would solve a problem that will only become more damaging as flights continue to increase.

CHARLES CURRIER, Newport Beach