New satellite-based flight procedures minimize aircraft noise at SBD

Earlier this year the San Bernardino International Airport (SBD), in collaboration with Hughes Aerospace, implemented several new satellite-based flight procedures to minimize aircraft noise impacts on neighboring communities. These state-of-the-art navigation procedures are designed to provide safer, consistent, and quieter flight paths for aircraft departing and arriving at SBD in various weather conditions.

It has been a pleasure to work closely with SBD Airport, Airlines, the FAA, along with community stakeholders, and we are excited to see the benefits these advanced designs are realized for everyone,” said Chris Baur, President & CEO of Hughes Aerospace in a statement. “We are thrilled to introduce these innovative satellite-based procedures at San Bernardino International Airport. These advancements, independent of legacy ground-based navigation aids, offer improved safety and accessibility for both Runways 06 and 24.

Mark Gibbs, Director of Aviation at San Bernardino International Airport emphasized the importance of these new procedures, saying, “we are grateful for the care Hughes Aerospace took to develop procedures that not only make our skies safer and more efficient for aviators, but also minimize overflights of our local residents to the greatest extent possible. The new satellite-based technology allows for more precise and stable flight paths, minimizing the need for pilots to adjust engine power settings and reducing aircraft noise.”

One of the key new flight procedures is crucial for commercial aircraft landing from the east on SBD’s Runway 24. This advanced satellite-based technology offers a more stable flight path, reducing the need for pilots to make frequent adjustments, which can contribute to community noise. The procedure is especially beneficial during strong westerly wind conditions, commonly experienced during summer afternoons.