TUSTIN : Noise Levels Drop, but Gripes Continue

Despite a slight decrease in the number of commercial jets flying over Tustin and in the overall noise pollution from John Wayne Airport, city officials said residents are still calling to complain about the noise.

According to a report the City Council reviewed Monday, the total number of aircraft operating from John Wayne Airport dropped from 6,716 during the last three months of 1991 to 6,264 during the first three months of 1992. Of that number, 16%, or 1,036, of the commercial jets taking off from the airport were low-noise aircraft.

In addition, with fewer planes taking off and landing at the airport, overall noise levels in Tustin have dropped, the report said. Last year’s average noise level in Tustin was 57.5 community noise equivalent levels (CNEL), which is similar to decibels but pertain specifically to aircraft noise. By comparison, the average noise level in the first quarter of 1992 dropped by half a CNEL to 57. According to state criteria, noise levels of up to 65 decibels are permitted in residential areas.

Although airport noise appears to be improving, residents still find it a nuisance. During the last quarter of 1991, about 25 Tustin residents complained to city officials, while in the first quarter of this year that number jumped to about 55 complaints, the report said.

Rita Westfield of the Community Development Department said while complaints are less than they were about two years ago, the department still handles calls regularly or directs complaints to the airport.