Pilots are encouraged to follow the recommended noise abatement procedures. In short: No Left Turns Before the Dumbarton Bridge.

The City of Palo Alto publishes a one-page noise abatement procedure guide, copied below:

PAO Noise Abatement Procedures

Please fly neighborly and be aware of the surrounding communities. There are noise sensitive areas to the West and South of the Airport. Aircraft are asked to climb to and maintain at least 1500 feet before crossing Hwy 101.

Fly over the bay whenever possible.

Please use reduced power settings whenever safely possible to reduce noise impacts. Even a reduction in 200 RPM can significantly reduce noise.

Preferred Noise Abatement Procedures

Runway 31

Left Dumbarton Departure

When departing RWY 31 turn right 10° on takeoff and climb over the bay. Fly to the Dumbarton Auto Bridge before making a left turn to fly over the peninsula or to the South. Cross Highway 101 at or above 1500 feet.

Right 270°/220° Departure

After takeoff climb over the bay while making a 220° turn to the South or 270° turn to the West. Cross Hwy 101 at or above 1500 feet.

• Clearly make request to PAO ATCT the desire to make a 220° or 270 turn. ATCT will deny all right downwind departures.

Runway 13

Left 270° Departure

After takeoff turn left and climb over the bay while making a 270° turn to the West. Cross over Highway 101 at or above 1500 feet.

PAO General Information

Bayside Pattern Altitude – 800 feet
Peninsula Side Pattern Altitude – 1000 feet
ATCT Hours of Operation – 0700 – 2100 hrs
ACT / CTA Frequency – 118.600
ATC Ground Frequency – 125.000
ATIS Frequency – 135.275
Fuel Frequencies – 122.85 or 122.95
Airport Operations Phone Number – (650) 690-5992

Caution

The Palo Alto Baylands preserve is located immediately to the north-east of the airport. Watch for birds on or near the airport.

Be Aware PAO Airspace lies under SFO Class B Airspace and SJC Class C Airspace.

ATCT DIRECTION SUPERSEDES NOISE ABATEMENT