Airlines Acknowledged for Noise Reduction Efforts

- SkyWest Airlines and Federal Express win "Fly Quiet" awards for 2006 -

Two airlines have earned the distinction of being the most quiet to fly in and out of Seattle-Tacoma International Airport in 2006.

SkyWest, which partners with other airlines to serve passengers flying to and from Portland, Spokane, Salt Lake City and Sea-Tac Airport, achieved the greatest noise reduction results among passenger airlines. Federal Express was the quietest among cargo airlines for the third year in a row.

Through the Port of Seattle's Fly Quiet incentive program, established by a citizen advisory committee, airlines are measured each year on their compliance with the following criteria:

The overall noise from an airline's aircraft fleet as measured at Port monitoring stations near the airport.

How well pilots follow noise abatement flight paths for both take-offs and landings. The paths are designed to create the least possible noise impacts.

Compliance with rules for testing engines on the ground at Sea-Tac. Engine "run-ups," as they are known in the industry, take place during aircraft maintenance checks and can be noisy.

"We're pleased to recognize the exemplary performance of these airlines," said Port Commission President John Creighton. "Our responsibility in operating Sea-Tac is not only to manage a safe and efficient airport that serves the entire region, but also to protect the quality of life in our local community, reducing the impact of aircraft noise wherever we can."

Helping SkyWest's scores in 2006 was its fleet of quiet Bombardier CRJ200, 700 and 900 aircraft. Federal Express achieved the best results in noise abatement flight path compliance, adhering strictly to headings and altitudes that help minimize noise.

JetBlue Airlines received honorable mention for its 2006 compliance with the Fly Quiet compliance categories.