Module 7: The Airport and the Environment

Airports have many concerns when operating in their respective environments. For example, wildlife, pollution, terrain, and population are all concerns for airports when making operational decisions. During this post, I will be discussing noise issues and concerns for the airports neighboring populations. I will also discuss methods that are currently used and methods that are suggested for the future to reduce and/or eliminate the noise of airplanes.

There are a combination of noises that are made from different parts of an airframe. These parts include propellers, engines, flaps, landing gears, and operations that occur around the airport. Studies have been conducted by many doctors that show aircraft related noise has been proven to cause learning disabilities and hypertension. (Kaltenbach, Maschke, & Klinke, 2008)  In 2001, it was found that more than 2,900 adults had hypertension related symptoms when around continuous aircraft related noises between 55 and 72 decibels (dB).  (Kaltenbach, Maschke, & Klinke, 2008)  Furthermore, more than 2,000 men between the ages 40 and 60 were evaluated for a 10 year period. These evaluations concluded that there was a 20% increase to the risk of hypertension with continuous noises of 50 dB's.  (Kaltenbach, Maschke, & Klinke, 2008). Additionally, studies were conducted on over 2,800 children from ages 9 to 13 in 89 different schools. it was determined that an increase to aircraft related noises deteriorated silent reading comprehension and memory performance.  (Kaltenbach, Maschke, & Klinke, 2008)

While completely eliminating airport noises is impossible at the moment, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) currently has rules in place to reduce the noise levels of specific aircraft types. Currently there are four stages of noise levels created by the FAA. Stage 1 (Loudest), Stage 2, Stage 3, and Stage 4 (Quietest). The noise levels are identified in Code of Federal Regulation Title 14, Chapter 1, Subchapter C, Part 36. Prior to January 1, 2016, civil jet aircrafts that meet a weight less than 75,000lbs is required to meet the noise requirements of Stage 3 or stage 4; Aircrafts 75,000 or more will have to meet Stage 2, Stage 3, or Stage 4 requirements. (FAA, 2019) As of January 1st, 2016, regardless of the civil jet aircrafts weight, it must meet Stage 3 or Stage 4 noise level requirements. (FAA, 2019)  Furthermore, Helicopters are allowed to operate at Stage 1 and Stage 2 noise level requirements.

References

FAA. (2019, Janurary 9). Aircraft Noise Issues. Retrieved from Federal Aviation Administration (FAA): https://www.faa.gov/about/office_org/headquarters_offices/apl/noise_emissions/airport_aircraft_noise_issues/

Kaltenbach, M., Maschke, C., & Klinke, R. (2008, August). Health Consequences of Aircraft Noise. Retrieved from National Center for Biotechnology Information: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2696954/