Airplane Noise Information

The City Council and Foster City staff are aware of the increasing concerns from residents related to aircraft noise. To help address these concerns, a Councilmember is assigned to the SFO Airport/Community Roundtable – a regional collective of elected officials tasked with addressing issues related to aircraft operations from San Francisco International Airport. While Roundtable members regularly monitor aircraft noise data and advocate on behalf of the best interest of their constituents, their ability to change flight paths is limited.  

The Federal government and Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) exclusively control aircraft routes and ultimately maintain the greatest influence over how local communities will be impacted by aircraft noise. These Federal agencies regulate the number of flights and timing of aircraft operations. Federal law prevents local agencies from implementing action intending to control aircraft flight routes. Simply put, it is beyond the jurisdiction of the Roundtable, local elected officials, and airport management to control aircraft operations. 

Fortunately, Congressman Kevin Mullin is working at the Federal level to address regional concerns on this matter. Residents wishing to share their comments related to the issue are encouraged to contact Congressman Mullin on his website here.  

Residents can  report excessive aircraft noise complaints associated with San Francisco International Airport to the SFO Noise Abatement Office at (650) 821-4736, email sfo.noise@flysfo.com, or fill out an online noise complaint form.  

For aircraft noise issues related to the San Carlos Airport, residents can report aircraft noise concerns online here or call (844) 266-6266.