What does the acronym NEM stand for in Part 150 planning?

• A. Noise Exposure Maps
• B. Noise Emission Metrics
• C. Noise Evaluation Manual
• D. Neighborhood Environmental Maps

Answer: (A)

In Part 150 planning, NEM stands for Noise Exposure Map. These maps visually depict how aircraft noise affects surrounding areas for a given year and forecast, usually showing contours of equal noise levels (often using DNL). They’re the primary tool for identifying who and what is affected by noise, guiding decisions on compatible land use and potential mitigation actions. The other terms don’t align with the standard planning terminology: they describe different concepts (a metric, a procedural manual, or a different naming).