In October 2003, San José Mineta International Airport (SJC), with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approval, revised the curfew portion of its noise control program from a weight-based curfew to a noise-based curfew, including enforcement provisions where operators can be fined $2,500 for curfew intrusions.
Noise-Based Curfew
FAR 36 Stage II aircraft may not operate between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.
FAR 36 Stage III aircraft at or below 89.0 EPNdB per FAR AC 36-1H average of takeoff/sideline/approach noise levels, or any other “grandfathered” Stage 3 Jet Aircraft can operate between the hours of 11:30 p.m. to 6:30 a.m.
Schedule of Authorized Aircraft (Last Revised November 2022)
Aircraft Noise Data
Exemptions From Curfew Hour Restrictions
- Events Beyond Operator Control:
- Weather
- Mechanical Problems
- Air Traffic Control
- Security Delays
- Emergency Operations
- Government Operated Aircraft
Enforcement Provisions
- Administrative Citation Fines
- $2,500 per occurrence
- Fines Appealable to Airport Commission
Jet Engine Testing
Testing can only take place at designated airport areas to minimize engine sound levels directed towards the surrounding communities. Normally prohibited during curfew hours, high power jet engine testing can be authorized after 4:30 a.m. provided the aircraft has a scheduled departure time after 6:30 a.m. Contact Airport Operations at (408) 277-5100 prior to the run-up to coordinate a location for testing.
Noise Information for Pilots
Please consider the surrounding noise-sensitive areas during your flight. See the following links for additional information:
- Guide to Obtaining Community Support for Your Local Airport - Airport Noise, Safety, and Airport Land Use Planning
- NBAA Noise Abatement Program
Contact Information
For information regarding the Airport Noise Control Program, please email the Airport Noise Monitoring Center at airportnoiseoffice@sjc.org or call Airport Operations at (408) 392-3535.