Sen. Jehlen Addresses Airplane Noise Complaints

– Allison Goldsberry

State Senator Pat Jehlen spoke about airplane noise concerns in a recent newsletter to constituents.

According to Sen. Jehlen, flight pattern changes at Logan Airport have led to more takeoffs and landings over some neighborhoods in her district, including Medford.

“People in those neighborhoods describe constant noise especially after 11 pm and before 6 am, disturbing sleep, health and the quality of life,” wrote Sen. Jehlen.

Sen. Jehlen said she met with other state legislators and constituents in July about the issue, and a letter from legislators led to a November meeting with FAA administrators, US Congresswoman Katherine Clark, Municipal Working Group members, and staffers for US Congressman Mike Capuano, Senator Edward Markey, and Senator Elizabeth Warren. According to Sen. Jehlen, the FAA reps said they are encouraging MassPort to seek more community engagement to address the airplane noise issue.

The FAA and MassPort have commissioned a study by MIT to find alternatives to reduce noise levels or spread them out more “evenly.” However, the study won’t be finished until next September.

“…we hope it will lead to positive change and we will continue working to ensure transparency and community input into the study,” said Sen. Jehlen.

Sen. Jehlen said she recently met with members of the Boston West Fair Skies Working Group, and she encourages concerned citizens to attend their next meeting on January 25 in Winchester.