Assessment of the Subsonic Noise Environment in the Nellis Range Complex

Abstract : The Nellis AFB Range covers over 13,000 square miles of southern Nevada. Numerous US Air Force aircraft operate within this range on a regular basis, participating in various forms of combat-readiness training. It is the purpose of this report to quantify the noise levels associated with subsonic operations and to evaluate the resulting environmental consequences. Nellis Range noise level predictions were accomplished using current US Air Force ROUTEMAP and NOISEMAP technology in conjunction with Nellis AFB operations information. The operations information was analyzed and reduced to reflect the operating conditions within the Nellis AFB Range. This information was then joined with ROUTEMAP and NOISEMAP computer models to calculate the noise environment. A total of four operating scenarios were analyzed for this report and then scaled for the busiest month of 1992. The noise levels for the Nellis Range Complex are presented in the form of composite contours. In the case of the three Military Training Routes (MTRs), the noise levels for various lateral distances from the MTR centerline are reported. It was found that, in all airspaces, the Day/Night Average Sound Levels were within normally acceptable land-use compatibility guidelines.