Noise has long been a major concern for aviation, and it continues to be a top issue for the public. Living near an airport can lead to various problems caused by noise disturbance. These include difficulties in communication, disrupted sleep, feelings of annoyance, and even effects on learning and health. When you double the distance from a noise source, its intensity decreases by about 6 dBA, making it sound roughly 25% as loud. Annoyance is the most common reaction to environmental noise, and it can significantly impact daily life. Factors like social circumstances, culture, and local environment influence how people perceive noise levels. Ultimately, noise disturbances can lower quality of life by causing frustration and sleep issues, which may lead to tiredness and reduced performance the next day.
All commercial aircraft must comply with noise certification standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO). These standards are outlined in ICAO Annex 16: Environmental Protection, Volume 1 – Aircraft Noise. They apply to aircraft designs and types when they are first approved for use and have become stricter since the original standards were established in 1971. For aircraft designed before 1977, the standards detailed in Chapter 2 apply. Any new designs since then must meet even tougher Chapter 3 or later standards. As of April 1, 2002, most aircraft not meeting Chapter 3 standards were phased out internationally. From January 1, 2006, a new, stricter Chapter 4 standard was introduced for new designs, requiring them to be one-third quieter than the previous standard.
Aeroplane operating procedures for noise reduction must align with ICAO Doc 8168 (PANS-OPS), Volume I, Section 7. Noise abatement procedures set by operators for any aircraft type should be consistent across all airports. According to JAR-OPS 1.235, operators must create procedures for noise reduction during instrument flight operations that comply with ICAO guidelines. Take-off climb procedures for noise reduction specified by operators must also be uniform across aerodromes.
Many airports adopt various strategies to reduce noise, such as:
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Establishing noise abatement procedures that steer clear of residential areas and sensitive sites like hospitals and schools.
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Using continuous descent approaches and departure noise abatement techniques.
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Selecting the best runway(s) and routes whenever possible.
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Minimizing unnecessary use of auxiliary power units while aircraft are on the stand.
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Constructing barriers and engine test-pens to help contain and redirect noise.
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Towing aircraft instead of using jet engines for taxiing.
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Limiting night operations and the total number of noisy aircraft operations.
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Providing noise insulation for homes most affected by noise.
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Implementing different operational charges based on aircraft noise levels.
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Monitoring noise levels and ensuring compliance with flight paths, penalizing any violations.
It’s important to note that aircraft in emergency situations are exempt from adhering to these noise abatement procedures.
