Community Conversation - Noise Advisory Forum
If you've ever looked up and wondered where a plane is headed, what route it's taking, and why some areas experience more aircraft noise than others, a series of upcoming forums will take a deep dive into those questions, providing answers and a space for broader discussion.
Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) hosts the Noise Advisory Forum (NAF) four times a year, with the next meeting scheduled for Wednesday, July 8, 2026.
Why Should I Attend?
These quarterly informational gatherings include educational presentations and offer an opportunity for community members and the Airport to engage in ongoing discussions about noise-related topics, such as aircraft operations, flight paths, and projects like the new Fourth Parallel Runway (1C-19C), which is currently under construction and is set to be operational in fall 2027.
The NAF was established last year to foster open and constructive dialogue between the City of Charlotte Aviation Department and impacted communities.
“Attendance ensures consistent community engagement, allowing the Airport to maintain transparency, identify emerging issues, and measure community satisfaction over time,” said CLT Noise Abatement Coordinator Matthew Reese. “The forum also allows staff to share updates on operations, studies, and mitigation efforts.”
Topic of the Month
July’s topic of discussion will focus on the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and how flight path changes are evaluated as part of long-term airport planning. CLT Planning & Development will deliver a NEPA and Master Plan Briefing.
April’s Noise Advisory Forum focused on CLT’s standard terminal arrivals (STARS) and standard departures (SIDS) and how these structured routes increase safety and predictability.
Attendees are encouraged to share their personal experiences with noise, ask questions or voice concerns. The Airport listens to every inquiry and uses these, in aggregate, to inform long-term planning.
“We’re listening, we’re analyzing long-term noise trends and impacts based on those complaints,” said Community Engagement Manager Melissa Treadaway. “We’re using those complaints in our discussions with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and in our studies with the consultant working on new flight paths.”
Improved Noise Complaint Form & App Preview
CLT has unveiled an improved noise complaint form to make the process easier for those who need it. NAF attendees will also receive the first preview of CLT’s new noise App – designed to make submitting and tracking noise concerns easier and more accessible.
CLT is one of the busiest Airports in the world for aircraft operations, with more than 1,600 daily arrivals and departures to over 190 destinations. The Airport plays a vital role in the Carolinas’ economy, generating an estimated $40 billion in economic impact and supporting 185,000 jobs annually.
Aircraft noise is a reality of any busy airport, and CLT recognizes that it can impact nearby communities, which is why CLT remains dedicated to transparent communication with the public.
Upcoming Forum Dates
All Noise Advisory Forums are held in person from 6-8 p.m. at the CLT Center, 5601 Wilkinson Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28208. Snacks and soft drinks will be provided.
The next meeting dates are:
- July 8, 2026
- October 14, 2026
- January 13, 2027
- April 14, 2027