Applicability: Relation to part 36

This regulation introduces the noise rules in Subpart I and explains which aircraft they apply to. The subpart covers three main categories:

Large subsonic jets (over 75,000 pounds): Multiple sections apply noise limits to these aircraft operating in the U.S., whether U.S. or foreign registered. Different rules apply depending on the aircraft's weight and the type of operation.

Supersonic aircraft: Specific noise requirements apply to civil supersonic airplanes with standard airworthiness certificates.

Smaller subsonic jets (75,000 pounds or less): Noise limits apply to these aircraft operating in the contiguous U.S. since December 31, 2015.

The regulation clarifies that "Part 36" refers to the FAA's noise certification standards, and the Administrator may accept equivalent international (ICAO Annex 16) noise standards for foreign aircraft. This matters because it determines which specific noise compliance rules apply to your aircraft based on its type, weight, and where you're operating.

*This is a plain-English summary for study only. The official 14 CFR text on this page is controlling — always read the current regulation and consult a CFI.*