Criteria for aircraft noise control around airports and their role in reaching the strategic goals in environmental protection from aviation impact

Abstract

The extent of the noise problem is large. In the European Union countries about 40% of the population are exposed to road traffic noise with an equivalent sound pressure level exceeding 55 dB(A) daytime and 20% are exposed to levels exceeding 65 dB(A). Environmental noise means that emitted from sources such as road traffic, trains, and aircraft. The main health risks of noise identified by WHO [1] are: • Pain and hearing fatigue; Hearing impairment including tinnitus; Annoyance; • Interferences with social behaviour (aggressiveness, protest & helplessness); • Interference with speech communication; Sleep disturbance; • Cardiovascular effects; Hormonal responses & their possible effects on metabolism & immune system; • Performance at work and school. The protection of the residents is understood as a dynamic process, meaning that the evaluation criteria must be repeatedly tested and – if necessary – adapted to new scientific findings. In addition, to increase the quality of life, it is recommended ever to apply the best noise reduction measurements provided by technical development. Through the effective management and control of environmental, neighbour and neighbourhood noise within the context of Government policy on sustainable development: - avoid significant adverse impacts on health and quality of life; - mitigate and minimise adverse impacts on health and quality of life; - where possible, contribute to the improvement of health and quality of life. [...]