Conflict Grows as Naples Jet Center Expands Hangar Amid Noise Concerns

Naples, Florida, United States - Naples is abuzz with discussions surrounding the recent developments at Naples Airport, where Naples Jet Center is constructing a new hangar and terminal. Set to be completed by the end of June 2025, this project will expand the existing 125,000 square feet of hangar space. The new terminal, which was finished in December 2024, aims to attract a wealthier clientele to the area. However, not everyone is thrilled about these changes. The Naples City Council is embroiled in a conflict with the Naples Airport Authority (NAA) over the construction, primarily driven by noise concerns and potential lease violations. Naples News reports that community sentiment is deeply divided; some residents lament the noise pollution, while others support the airport’s expansion.

Since its inception in 2007 by Bruce Byerly, who hails from Peoria, Illinois, Naples Jet Center has been a prominent player in local aviation. Initially renting hangars, Byerly recognized a need for updated facilities, sparking plans to construct new ones. This has become all the more relevant as airport operations have increased significantly, with 123,171 takeoffs and landings recorded in 2024, surpassing neighboring Southwest Florida International Airport. The economic impact of Naples Airport was estimated at $781 million in 2022, a significant increase from $273.1 million in 2010. The airport is unique in that it operates without tax funding from the city or county, relying instead on hangar rents and fuel sales.

Noise Concerns and Community Response

With the airport’s growing activity, the City Council has raised alarms about noise pollution affecting the quality of life for residents. Some in the flight path have voiced strong objections, fearing their peaceful neighborhood is at risk. The Old Naples Association has become actively involved, lobbying for effective noise reduction measures. A newly formed watchdog organization, Responsible Government Naples, is also focused on protecting the airport’s operations while addressing community concerns.

In an effort to mitigate noise, the Naples Airport Authority has implemented various measures to promote quieter flying practices. The authority encourages users to observe Quiet Hours from 10 PM to 7 AM and has established guidelines that include a ban on Stage 1 and Stage 2 jet aircraft and restrictions on fueling operations during nighttime. More information on these noise abatement initiatives can be found on the Naples Airport website, which also provides access to noise reports and a hotline for reporting excessive noise.

Future Plans and Ongoing Discussions

The upcoming city council workshop on June 16 will feature NAA officials discussing noise reduction strategies, suggesting that the ongoing tensions could lead to meaningful dialogue. Following this workshop, a significant resolution is set to be considered on June 18, which would grant the City Council authority over all building permits at the airport. This could mark a pivotal moment in the relationship between local governance and airport operations.

An alarming trend lies in the increasing volume of traffic at the airport, which has expanded from 8,600 flights a year in 1996 to nearly 50,000 since 2020. Projections indicate an expected rise in flights to 180,000 annually, raising concerns about noise and pollution levels. According to Reduce Jet Noise Naples, the average passenger count per flight at Naples Airport is less than two, resulting in significant noise impacts for nearby residents. The council itself recognizes the critical need to address these issues, pledging to protect the neighborhoods from the adverse effects of jet traffic.

As Naples navigates the complexities of airport expansion and community preferences, the balance between economic benefits and quality of life remains a hot topic. This tug-of-war between progress and preservation continues to shape the local narrative, and residents are keenly awaiting the outcomes of council discussions.