Residents living near New York City’s busiest airports are facing increased noise levels that have become more than just a nuisance – it’s now a potential health concern. According to a study from University College London, exposure to high levels of aircraft noise can lead to a decline in heart function, increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke. The study also found that the negative effects are amplified when the noise occurs at night.

For Maria and William Becce, who have lived in Flushing, Queens for over 40 years, the change in aircraft noise has been significant. They recall the moment in 2012 when low-flying planes began to constantly roar overhead, disrupting their daily lives. The couple believes that a shift in flight paths at LaGuardia Airport has led to planes flying lower and more frequently above their neighborhood.

The Becces are not alone in their concerns about the impact of aircraft noise on their health. Maria states, “That’s the stress, and whether or not you think you’re ignoring it or not, you’re not. Your body’s not ignoring it. ” The couple is not asking for complete silence, but rather a more equitable distribution of noise among communities.

In response to these concerns, Congressman Tom Suozzi is proposing a plan for sound abatement at both LaGuardia and JFK International Airport. He points out that while the current flight path has reduced noise for some communities, it has increased the burden on others. Suozzi’s plan includes dispersing flight paths and implementing sharper increases in aircraft altitude to alleviate the strain on communities in “noise corridors.

Suozzi acknowledges that this is a problem in many airport areas, but the New York City area is particularly affected due to its high levels of air traffic. He believes that his proposed solutions are practical and achievable without compromising safety or disrupting the aviation industry.

Although the Federal Aviation Administration and the U. S. Department of Transportation declined to comment, Suozzi remains committed to finding a solution that will benefit all communities impacted by aircraft noise.

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