BWI Launches Site To Track Flight Traffic, File Noise Complaints

BWI Marshall Airport announced Thursday an online system that gives the public detailed information about incoming and outgoing flights, including noise measurements from nearby communities.

The WebTrak system was first revealed Tuesday during a meeting of the DC Metroplex BWI Community Roundtable, BWI officials said. Noise has been a sticking point for both the airport's neighbors and state officials, who have challenged new approach and take-off patterns established by the Federal Aviation Administration.

“This tool provides a complete picture for our neighbors,” BWI Executive Director Ricky Smith said in a statement. “The system enables the public to track airline flights, as well as to observe and report specific details about aircraft noise. WebTrak is an innovative technology that will ensure the public has easy access to this important data.”

Residents can investigate their noise concerns by replaying flight tracks from specific times, and see flights relative to their location. They can then submit complaints to BWI officials directly from the website.

On Wednesday, FAA officials said they would reconsider their position challenging Maryland over the new flight patterns, a move Gov. Larry Hogan and Attorney General Brian Frosh lauded in a joint statement.

"Changes to flight paths at BWI were made without adequate notice and outreach to surrounding communities, and without sufficient environmental impact analysis," they said. "This latest development is welcome news for the thousands of Maryland residents who are miserable in their own homes. Our administration remains committed to bringing relief and restoring the quality of life for our citizens living around our airports."

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WBAL-TV 11 and The Associated Press contributed to this report.