MCAS Beaufort - Operations and Noise Inquiries

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AICUZ
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MIssion

Although the operations of the Air Station are noisy, training is essential to prepare pilots for the numerous day and night landings they will perform overseas. Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort appreciates your support and patience as we prepare to send Marines and sailors into harm's way.

Air Installations Compatible Use Zones

In the early 1970s, the United States Department of Defense (DOD) initiated the Air Installations Compatible Use Zones (AICUZ) program to balance the need for aircraft operations with community concerns related to aircraft noise and accident potential. The goal of the AICUZ program is to protect the health, safety, and welfare of those living and working in the vicinity of a military installation while sustaining the military’s operational mission. The AICUZ study defines high noise zones and accident potential zones (APZs) surrounding military airfields and recommends land uses that are compatible within these zones. Local governments are encouraged to incorporate AICUZ program compatibility guidelines as an element of land use planning and development practices.

MCAS Beaufort has had an AICUZ program since 1977. MCAS Beaufort and Lowcountry governments have been working together for years to incorporate the AICUZ study into county and city planning documents, and to support the community in understanding the AICUZ program and its planning guidance. The most recent AICUZ study was completed in 2013. In addition to protecting the public safety and health, by sustaining the mission of MCAS Beaufort, these programs protect the taxpayer's investment in national defense and the military’s economic benefits to the Beaufort area. Please see the resources heading for downloads and more information.