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Part 161 arose after Congress passed the Airport Noise and Capacity Act of 1990, which prevented airports from passing new noise rules such as curfews. If an airport has reason to believe a new noise rule is justified, despite the Noise and Capacity Act, Part 161 provides a study methodology to examine the reasons why, and to provide a means to persuade the Federal Aviation Administration that an exception is warranted. The process is labeled a Part 161 Study because it must meet the requirements of Part 161 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR), which says that restrictions on aircraft meeting certain noise standards must be rigorously evaluated. The ultimate goal of a Part 161 Study is to analyze both the benefits and the costs of a curfew in hopes of persuading the FAA that the restriction is justified. The benefits of the measure must be demonstrated to exceed its costs. Benefits are generally defined by the degree to which noise impacts would be reduced, while costs include the continuing direct and indirect economic effects of the restriction. Additionally, the application must contain substantial evidence supporting each of six statutory conditions prior to its approval, such that the proposed restriction: Is reasonable and is neither arbitrary nor discriminatory. Does not create an undue burden on interstate or foreign commerce. Maintains safe and efficient use of navigable airspace. Does not conflict with any existing federal statute or regulation. Has been adequately provided for public comment. Does not create an undue burden on the national aviation system. The evaluation process established for the Part 161 Study being conducted at Bob Hope Airport addressed each of these issues, as well as investigated the anticipated environmental effects of the proposed measure. The basic elements of the evaluation were to: Develop forecasts to illustrate what conditions would be like both with and without the proposed noise rule; Forecast noise exposure patterns resulting from unrestricted and restricted conditions; Determine noise impacts on dwellings, persons and other noise sensitive uses for unrestricted and restricted conditions; Identify economic benefits and costs associated with restricted conditions; Document each required statutory condition; Assess the environmental impacts of the proposed restriction; and Document all findings and prepare the Part 161 application for submission to the FAA for review and approval.