How can you manage airport noise to protect surrounding communities?

1 Assess the noise impact

The first step to manage airport noise is to measure and evaluate its impact on the surrounding areas. You can use various tools and methods, such as noise contour maps, noise exposure forecasts, noise monitoring systems, and noise complaint hotlines, to collect and analyze data on the noise levels, sources, patterns, and effects. This will help you identify the noise-sensitive areas, the main noise contributors, the noise reduction goals, and the potential noise mitigation measures.

2 Engage with stakeholders

The second step to manage airport noise is to engage with the relevant stakeholders, such as airlines, air traffic controllers, regulators, local authorities, community groups, and residents. You can use various channels and platforms, such as public consultations, advisory committees, newsletters, websites, and social media, to communicate and collaborate with them. This will help you build trust and transparency, understand their perspectives and expectations, address their concerns and complaints, and involve them in the decision-making process.

3 Implement noise abatement procedures

The third step to manage airport noise is to implement noise abatement procedures, such as operational, technical, and land use measures, that can reduce the noise generated by the airport activities. Some examples of operational measures are adjusting flight paths, altitudes, and schedules, limiting night operations, and imposing noise charges or penalties. Some examples of technical measures are using quieter aircraft, engines, and equipment, installing noise barriers or insulation, and applying noise-reducing technologies. Some examples of land use measures are zoning, planning, and acquiring noise-compatible properties.

4 Monitor and evaluate the results

The fourth step to manage airport noise is to monitor and evaluate the results of the noise management strategies. You can use various indicators and metrics, such as noise exposure levels, noise complaints, compliance rates, cost-benefit analysis, and stakeholder satisfaction, to assess the effectiveness and efficiency of the noise abatement procedures. This will help you identify the strengths and weaknesses, the opportunities and challenges, and the best practices and lessons learned of the noise management process.

5 Adapt to changing conditions

The fifth step to manage airport noise is to adapt to the changing conditions and circumstances that may affect the noise impact and management. You can use various tools and methods, such as scenario planning, risk analysis, and feedback mechanisms, to anticipate and respond to the changes in the airport operations, demand, technology, regulations, environment, and community. This will help you adjust and update the noise management strategies accordingly and ensure their relevance and sustainability.

6 Educate and inform the public

The sixth step to manage airport noise is to educate and inform the public about the airport noise issues and solutions. You can use various materials and media, such as brochures, posters, videos, podcasts, and webinars, to raise awareness and understanding of the noise sources, impacts, and mitigation measures, as well as the benefits and challenges of the airport operations. This will help you foster a positive and constructive dialogue and relationship with the public and promote a culture of noise awareness and responsibility.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?