Noise Information

We understand aircraft noise can be disruptive. If you would like to report a concern, start here.

Report a Noise Concern

Aircraft in the Air

Once airborne, aircraft are under the authority of the Federal Aviation Administration.

The FAA controls:

• Flight paths
• Altitudes
• Routing
• Air traffic operations

Aircraft on the Ground at PSP

If you believe the noise originated from an aircraft on the ground at Palm Springs International Airport, you may submit a comment to the airport.

Who Controls What

Palm Springs International Airport does not regulate:

• Flight paths
• Aircraft altitudes
• Airline schedules
• Aircraft types
• Military flight operations

Under the Airport Noise and Capacity Act of 1990, airports cannot impose curfews or restrict compliant aircraft operations.

The FAA manages the National Airspace System and all aircraft once airborne.

Military Aircraft

Military aircraft have operated at PSP since its origins as a World War II airfield.

Because the airport has received federal funding, it must allow U.S. government aircraft to use the facility. The City of Palm Springs cannot prohibit military operations.

PSP does not have military aircraft based on site. Most activity involves fuel stops or training.

Helicopter Activity

Many helicopter flights heard in the Coachella Valley do not originate from PSP.

Helicopters are frequently used for:

• Law enforcement
• Medical evacuation
• Emergency response
• Utility operations

These flights may occur at any hour due to operational needs.

Airport Activity

Passenger numbers have increased in recent years, while total aircraft operations have declined compared to prior periods.

Airlines are operating larger aircraft with higher load factors, resulting in more passengers per flight rather than more flights overall.

There are no plans to expand the airport’s runways or footprint. Current projects focus on terminal modernization and passenger facilities.

Learn More About Aircraft Noise

FAA Community Education Series

Learn how aircraft noise is measured and regulated at the federal level.