This page aims to describe the facts surrounding the potential basing of the F-35 plane with the Vermont Air National Guard, at their base located at the Burlington International Airport in a neutral manner.

As the current fleet of F-16 jets near the end of their projected lifespan the F-35 is the plane designated to replace the F-16 airframe. There have been concerns presented by citizens and the municipalities adjacent to the airport concerning potential changes in areas affected by noise; the area under the most speculation is what is known as the “65 DNL” contour line or area. This line represents the “Day and Night Average” noise measured in decibels, with noise “penalties” associated with flying during restricted times (night hours).

The document that has addressed the potential impacts of the F-35 should they be based in Vermont is the draft Environmental Impact Statement (which can be viewed in its entirety here). This document is the first step in a process that engages the public, and intends to elicit reactions and questions that will be included and addressed in a final EIS. This site aims to provide answers to a number of those questions during the interim period.

For reference, the two scenarios under consideration for basing the F-35 jets are as follows:

• Scenario 1 is the proposed basing of 18 F-35’s in Vermont. This is the likely course of action. Vermont currently has 24 F-16’s.
• Scenario 2 is the proposed basing of 24 F-35’s in Vermont. This is not the anticipated course of action.

To learn more visit our FAQs page.

This site is funded by GBIC, the not-for-profit economic development corporation serving Chittenden County.