Naples Airport hosts first 'Plane Talk' forum of the year, community shares concerns

NAPLES, Fla. —

Residents voiced concerns about aircraft noise, safety and quality of life during a Naples Airport Authority community forum held just days after the release of the airport’s 2025 Annual Report.

The meeting, known as Plane Talk, is a recurring forum designed to allow residents, airport users and community members to speak directly with airport leadership about airport operations and impacts.

Several residents said planes continue to fly low over their homes, creating constant noise and raising safety concerns. Some pointed to the deadly plane crash along I-75 two years ago as a moment that heightened their fears.

Frances Stephan, who lives near the crash site, said the crash was alarming for her neighborhood.

“We were all very concerned. It can happen anywhere, but it’s getting more and more concerning,” Stephan said.

The Naples Airport Authority’s 2025 Annual Report highlights new FAA-approved flight paths intended to improve safety and reduce noise. Executive Director Chris Rozansky said aircraft are now approaching the airport at a steeper angle, beginning their descent about 1,000 feet higher than in the past.

“Instead of using a three-degree approach, they’re using a three-and-a-half-degree approach,” Rozansky said. “So it’s limited in how much higher we can make it because of safety procedures for air traffic.”

Airport leaders said transparency is a priority. They also acknowledged limits on how much control the airport has over aircraft operations, which are governed by federal regulations.

Residents also raised concerns about the height of buildings near flight paths. Airport officials said all nearby development proposals are reviewed through FAA airspace studies, and that the airport works with developers and local governments to ensure aviation and public safety.

Health impacts from aircraft noise were another topic of discussion. Mary Tatigian, a registered nurse for 30 years and a member of the airport’s Noise Compatibility Committee, said noise is a public health issue.

“Noise affects your mental and physical health, your cardiovascular health, anxiety, depression, sleeplessness, and increases metabolic risks like diabetes, obesity,” Tatigian said. “So there’s a lot of health issues associated, plus the simple fact that we’d like to be able to have some peace and quiet in our home.”

While concerns were raised, residents also praised the airport’s team for listening, having open conversations, and making changes when possible.

Airport leaders addressed questions about relocating the airport, saying a study completed last year found moving it could cost more than $2 billion and would face environmental and logistical challenges. As a result, they are no longer considering relocation.

Looking ahead, the Naples Airport Authority said it is exploring possible changes to departure routes, which could be the next phase of noise reduction efforts. Officials also encouraged residents to use the airport’s noise comments app, saying the information helps identify problem areas.

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