People often ask if filing noise complaints will change how the airport operates. Unfortunately, it is not that simple. On a daily basis, operational factors such as wind and weather, the number of arrivals and departures, the time of day, construction activity and other conditions all play a part in how the airport operates at any given time. The Federal Aviation Administration has sole authority for determining where aircraft will fly and how the airport will operate. These decisions are made solely upon standard air traffic control procedures (including several noise abatement procedures) and noise complaints are not considered when making these decisions. Noise complaints are, however, used in conjunction with operational data to corroborate specific events or identify possible trends. Various cities also use the complaints to gauge and assess the level of concern about airport noise in their communities. In addition, complaints provide insight for MAC Noise Program Office staff as to any specific trends or irregularities that may need to be investigated or assessed.