Massachusetts House Bill H5278

Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/25/26
• Refer: 3/25/26

Caption

Relative to noise report data and good neighbor policy at Beverly Regional Airport

Impact

The implications of HB H5278 on state laws pertain directly to aviation noise regulation and community relations with airports. By establishing a formal process for noise data reporting and complaint collection, the bill seeks to standardize how local noise issues are addressed. It also encourages the creation of a 'Good Neighbor' policy specifically designed to foster better relations between the airport's operations and the surrounding community. This policy will guide flight instructors, pilots, and student pilots on recognizing and mitigating the effects of 'Touch and Go' operations, which have been a specific source of noise complaints.

Summary

House Bill H5278 introduces measures to improve noise management at Beverly Regional Airport (BVY) through enhanced data collection and community engagement initiatives. Specifically, the bill mandates that the Massachusetts Aeronautics Division collects and publishes all noise reports and complaints received from local residents between April 1 and October 1 each year. This data must be accessible on the Division's public website, increasing transparency concerning noise levels experienced by the community. Additionally, the legislation requires that monthly summaries of noise complaints be provided, ensuring that residents are kept informed of noise impacts throughout the crucial months when airport operations are most active.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support for its proposed data transparency and community involvement, it could face opposition regarding the enforcement and effectiveness of the proposed Good Neighbor policy. Concerns may arise regarding the actual implementation of these guidelines and whether they will lead to meaningful changes in airport operations. Additionally, there may be questions among stakeholders about how effectively the data collection will translate into actionable improvements in noise management, and whether ongoing community input will be adequately addressed in airport practices.