Subsonic turbojet-powered and transport-category airplanes with a maximum gross takeoff weight of what amount or more, as a new type design submitted after January 1, 2006, must meet new noise certification levels?

• A. 12,500
• B. 25,000
• C. 50,000
• D. 100,000

Answer: (A)

New noise standards apply to newer type designs only above a certain weight, and that weight threshold is what determines whether the stricter certification is required. For subsonic turbojet-powered and transport-category airplanes, if the maximum gross takeoff weight is 12,500 pounds or more, and the design is submitted after January 1, 2006, the aircraft must meet the newer, tighter noise certification levels. This cutoff helps separate larger, commercial-type airplanes from lighter general aviation aircraft, which stay under the older limits.

So the correct threshold is 12,500 pounds or more because it marks the point at which the FAA implemented the Stage 4 noise standards for new designs after 2006.