Noise Limitations for Aircraft Operations in the Vicinity of Grand Canyon National Park

This action classifies aircraft used in commercial sightseeing flight operations over Grand Canyon National Park (GCNP) by the noise they produce. This amendment of 14 CFR part 93 is necessary to establish reasonably achievable requirements for aircraft operating in the GCNP to be considered as employing quiet aircraft technology. The FAA now refers to the designation as "GCNP quiet aircraft technology" rather than "quiet technology" to clarify that the scope of this rule is limited to aircraft operating in the GCNP. The FAA and NPS will use the GCNP quiet aircraft technology designation to consider establishing routes and corridors and in future actions to achieve substantial restoration of natural quiet and visitor experience in the GNCP. This rule does not require any action by commercial air tour operators, as it simply identifies which aircraft meet or do not meet the GCNP quiet aircraft technology designation. Further, this rule does not relieve GCNP commercial air tour operators of their operational limitations. Section 804(b) of the National Parks Air Tour Management Act directs the FAA, in consultation with the NPS and the Advisory Group (now known as the National Park Overflights Advisory Group Aviation Rulemaking Committee or NPOAG ARC) to consider establishing the GCNP quiet aircraft technology aircraft routes and corridors consistent with certain requirements.