October 2, 2009

In February 2008, the Oregon Air National Guard (ORANG) introduced a proposal to the Port of Portland and the PDX Citizens Noise Advisory Committee (CNAC) regarding the use of a newly developed approach procedure, referred to as the Continuous Descent Overhead Approach (CDAOH).  The CDAOH was adapted from a standardized arrival procedure which is taught to and practiced by U>S> military pilots worldwide.  Use of the CDAOH will help ORANG satisfy their training and proficiency requirements, while providing minimal noise exposure in nearby residential communities.

After approximately 19 months of data collection and analysis, and public input involvement, CNAC voted to support use of the CDAOH at PDX, at their September 2009 meeting.  This meeting included additional public comment which included comments in support of and in opposition to use of the CDAOH.  After additional discussion and a vote, CNAC passed a resolution.  CNACs recommendation is in support of the CDAOH with the following conditions:

• Only using Runway 28L (west-flow only)
• Only between 9am to5pm Monday-Friday
• Only during weather conditions greater than 5,000 ft ceiling & 5 miles visibility
• Only using a two (2) jet maximum formation.
• Noise Management will provide a 6-month report to CNAC quantifying the number of CDAOHs flown and the number of complaints submitted.

 Based on the data collected during the testing and community feedback, including that from local and stated elected officials, the Port has accepted CNACs recommendation as presented.  ORANG and the Noise Management staff will work together to collect and document the number of CDAOHs flown as well as community feedback related to the procedure.  This information will be presented to CNAC and the Portland City Council on a quarterly basis.  It will also include the six (6) month report identified in CNAC:S recommendation.

CNAC and the Port will also be  exploring the use of the CDAOH with a north turn, which when used, would keep aircraft over non-residential areas.  The north-turn CDAOH utilizes the same approach (to the north), over-flying Marine Drive and a portion of Government Island.  Testing in 2008 indicated the noise exposure to residential areas in Portland and Vancouver was minimal.  Outreach related to the north-turn will include working with elected officials in Vancouver as well as neighborhood associations and interested residents.

We want to encourage ongoing communication with the public and especially those communities and residents impacted by PDX.  Should you have questions about this procedure or about CNAC or the Noise Management Department, I encourage you to contact our office by calling (503) 460-4100 or visiting us online at: www.flypdx.com.

Sincerely,

Jason L. Schwartz

Noise Manager