Stick to your flight patterns
May 6, 2011 · Updated 1:17 PM
Many of us signed a document when we purchased property in North or Central Whidbey, that we were aware of Navy aircraft flight patterns and the accompanying noise related to those patterns. The Navy’s adherence to those flight patterns seems to have changed.
Even though located between flight patterns, I have consistently experienced Navy aircraft directly overhead. Often low-flying, wingtip-to-the-ground, pedal-to-the-metal, very noisy passings. These pilots seem to enjoy the thrust of power as they return to the base by a shortcut out of the flight pattern. And with no regard to the noise they are inflicting on the residents below, or to the fuel consumed. Calling the Navy Community Liaison Officer (257-8787) hasn’t helped.
For any good safety, or runway maintenance, or truly urgent need, I’m willing to accept flight path deviation for the short term. But consistent noise is not what I signed up for. If private aircraft made that much noise, everyone below would scream.
The Navy expects their sailors and pilots to adhere to a strict set of rules. Why not adhere to flight patterns? It’s all about being considerate of one another.
Tim Verschuyl
Oak Harbor
Comment on this story.
So keep your comments:
- Civil
- Smart
- On-topic
- Free of profanity
We ask that all participants own their words by logging in with their Facebook account. It's a simple process that will take seconds and helps keep our comments free of trolls, cranks, and “drive-by” commenters. We reserve the right to remove comments from anyone using screen names, pseudonyms or false identities. Please refer to our Terms of Use for full detail on participating on our site.
