NAVAL AIR STATION PATUXENT RIVER, Md. – Naval Air Station (NAS) Patuxent River released its Air Installations Compatible Use Zones (AICUZ) study update August 13. The purpose of the AICUZ Program is to achieve long-term compatibility between air installations and neighboring communities. AICUZ policy is governed by Department of Defense Instruction 4165.57 and Chief of Naval Operations Instruction 11010.36D, which defines the guiding standards, analytical procedures, and implementation responsibilities for the Navy.

Since the establishment of the AICUZ Program, the Patuxent River Complex has undergone multiple studies to address evolving missions, aircraft types, and operational requirements. Earlier studies include the 1979 AICUZ Study for both Naval Air Station Patuxent River and Webster Outlying Field, the 2006 Webster Outlying Field AICUZ, 2009 NAS Patuxent River AICUZ, and the 2017 Webster Outlying Field AICUZ Addendum. The 2026 NAS Patuxent River AICUZ Study is the most recent approved document. These documents collectively establish noise zones, Accident Potential Zones, and compatible land use planning standards that have guided regional land use coordination.

NAS Patuxent River and Webster Outlying Field are essential components of the Patuxent River Complex, supporting research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E), training, and operational readiness missions for the U.S. Navy and joint partners. These missions require flexible and evolving aviation operations that generate aircraft noise and safety considerations extending beyond installation boundaries. The Air Installations Compatible Use Zones (AICUZ) Study Update has been prepared to promote long?term compatibility between military aviation activities and surrounding land uses while preserving mission capability and protecting public health and safety.

More information, including the NAS Patuxent River AICUZ study update and other documents, are available at https://ndw.cnic.navy.mil/Installations/NAS-Patuxent-River/AICUZ/ .