Why aircraft noise is shaking these Portland neighborhoods
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North and Northeast Portlanders are used to a certain level of noise. With major freeways, an airport and a racetrack nearby, the roar of a loud engine is part of everyday life.
- But some residents (including this Piedmont local) have reported noisier-than-normal aircraft sounds — enough to rattle houses and wake people up — over the last week.
The big picture: Our recent stretch of clear, cold weather, combined with routine Oregon Air National Guard activity — plus additional military aircraft, including visiting U.S. Navy Blue Angels F-18s — could have made jet noise more noticeable, according to Port of Portland spokesperson Kara Hansen.
- People across St. Johns, Alberta, Rose City Park and Cully shared similar experiences on Reddit, describing low-flying jets and planes flying over neighborhoods where they aren't always as noticeable.
State of play: Atmospheric conditions play a big role in how sound travels, per the Port. Clear skies, dry air, wind direction and temperature can amplify aircraft noise, even when flight activity is routine.
- These factors can cause aircraft to sound louder or closer to the ground, depending on location.
Between the lines: Federally operated aircraft, including military jets, routinely use Portland International Airport's runways and are not required to notify the Port in advance.
- The sound of an Air Force F-15 taking off and performing an "unrestricted climb" can be particularly loud and has occurred at PDX in the past.
The bottom line: While the noise isn't particularly new, current conditions are making it harder to ignore.