Naples Airport Authority adds three new members to Noise Compatibility Committee

NAPLES, Fla. - March 27, 2025 - PRLog -- The Naples Airport Authority Board of Commissioners has selected three new members to the airport's Noise Compatibility Committee, replacing outgoing members whose four-year terms ended.

Julie Kapler will represent the airport's southwest quadrant, while Charles Berkebile will serve as the representative for active commercial and general aviation pilots, and Mary Tatigian will represent the airport's northeast quadrant.

Kapler, a retired electrical engineer and global business development professional, joins the committee following a distinguished career in sales and business development. As a senior executive at Accenture, Kapler was responsible for managing key relationships, overseeing sales teams and facilitating global development opportunities. Her strategic expertise and leadership will be valuable assets to the committee.

Berkebile, a captain with American Airlines, has more than 35 years of experience as a licensed pilot. He is also a member of the Experimental Aircraft Association and the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, and his extensive expertise in both commercial and general aviation brings a well-rounded perspective to the committee.

Tatigian, a Naples resident for 40 years, brings a strong background in healthcare and community advocacy to her role. A registered nurse for over 30 years, she is also the founder of Quiet Florida, a community group focused on addressing noise concerns related to aircraft and modified car exhaust systems. Her commitment to public engagement and health will contribute meaningfully to the committee's mission.

The Naples Airport Authority thanks outgoing Noise Compatibility Committee members Lawrence Bennell, John Kuntz and Julie Schmelzle their years of commitment and service.

The committee is comprised of nine citizen volunteers who help monitor the impact of aircraft noise and make recommendations about noise-mitigation procedures for consideration by the City of Naples Airport Authority Board of Commissioners. The members serve as volunteer representatives of the six geographic areas surrounding the airport, Collier County Board of Commissioners, Naples City Council and general aviation pilots.

The Naples Airport Authority and the Noise Compatibility Committee launched the "Please Fly Safe Fly Quiet" campaign in 2012 to encourage pilots and aircraft operators to do all they can to minimize aircraft noise. The campaign encourages pilots to observe the airport's recommended 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. quiet hours, which currently has over 98.6% compliance.