Long Beach : Douglas Wins Appeal to Expand Jet Engine Tests

Douglas Aircraft Co. has won an appeal to expand testing of its C-17 aircraft engines, despite protests from California Heights residents who say the noise literally rattles their windows.

The Long Beach City Council voted 8 to 1 to accept a compromise offered by the aerospace giant and approve 10 weekend tests per year, from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Weekday testing will be allowed from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., an extension of four hours.

“I’ve never voted against Douglas before,” said Councilman Wallace Edgerton, the only dissenting vote. “My primary concern is for the quality of life (in nearby neighborhoods).”

Residents have met with Douglas facilities manager Tom McClelland three times this year to work out a compromise that satisfies both noise-sensitive residents and Douglas, which is behind schedule on the C-17.

“We suffer from the noise. Windows shake all the time from even low vibrations,” 25-year resident Richard Depperman said.