The Gull's Call - Apr/May/Jun 2026

by John Hamilton, CLASS President

A BIT OF WHIPLASH BEST EXPLAINS WHAT HAPPENED in January and February of this year. Recall that aircraft departing the usual South Field runway and headed north or east—such as Southwest Airlines and FedEx flights—were scheduled in February 2024 to turn six degrees to the left (towards the center of the Bay) after reaching 520 feet in altitude. This change was later postponed and, in January 2026 denied by the FAA. However, in late February 2026 we learned that the proposal may be back on track, with implementation now being considered for February 2027. If approved, approximately two-thirds of the departing aircraft between 7 AM and 10 PM would use this route. The adjustment is expected to reduce noise levels by about three decibels. To put that in perspective, this is roughly the difference in noise between a 20-year-old Boeing 737 and the newest 737 MAX aircraft. This departure procedure is currently known as the CNDEL departure. It’s worth noting that aircraft departing south during daytime hours already turn six degrees to the left—a change successfully advocated for by CLASS with the airport and the FAA. This procedure, known as the OAK 6 departure, has been measured to reduce noise by approximately three decibels. As a result of a 2000 lawsuit, aircraft departing from the South Field between 10 PM and 7 AM are required to turn 26 degrees to the left to reduce noise impact on nearby residents. Due to heavy traffic from San Francisco International Airport (SFO), this larger turn cannot be applied throughout the day. Another encouraging moment came during the Superbowl. The private jets carrying well-heeled fans and business travelers mostly departed after the game while following the appropriate noise abatement procedures (NAPs). This allowed them to avoid flying from the North Field over CHBIOA homes. This was a real positive sign of cooperation among OAK staff, the tower, and the pilots. Many thanks to everyone who adhered to the NAPs and helped minimize the impact on the community. We encourage all Harbor Bay residents to check out online SFO roundtable meetings on airport noise, as well

as the OAK Noise Forum. A wise homeowner concerned about their property values should be informed and involved. Currently, CLASS relies on just six dedicated volunteers— but they won’t be able to advocate forever. Without new volunteers, there may be nothing standing between the 15,000 residents of CHBIOA and the noise impacts of two major airports. Your participation can make a real difference. Finally, a word about cargo planes. Following the three engine MD-11 crash last November 3rd, all MD-11 aircraft have been grounded as of March 1st, the date of this article. In February, UPS announced it will retire its entire MD-11 fleet. FedEx, however, reportedly plans to return some MD-11s to service as early as May 2026. CLASS has sent a letter to FedEx noting that MD-11s are on average five decibels louder than the remaining non– MD-11 fleet and requesting that FedEx not return any MD-11s to service at OAK. Residents who wish to support this request are encouraged to send an email to info@ classalameda.com.

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The Gull’s Call