Will EASA's New Noise Tech Finally Silence Airport Community Concerns?
Key Points
- 1EASA approved a new noise reduction technology for both new and existing commercial aircraft.
- 2The technology is a key retrofit solution targeting airframe noise, which is most prominent during landing and approach.
- 3Research shows similar retrofit measures can achieve a three-decibel reduction in flyover noise, equating to a 30% perceived noise cut for ground communities.
- 4The approval helps airlines meet stringent ICAO Annex 16 noise standards and the EU's long-term environmental goals.
The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has granted a key approval for a novel EASA noise reduction technology.
This new system is expected to deliver a significant cut in aircraft noise pollution.
The technology is certified for installation on both new and existing aircraft.
This marks a major step toward a quieter aviation future for communities near airports.
The Need for Quieter Skies
Aircraft noise is a primary environmental concern for residents globally. The noise is linked to health issues like sleep disturbance and cardiovascular disease. The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has projected a challenge. ICAO trend assessments suggest the number of people exposed to aircraft noise could increase by up to 50% by 2036. This increase is compared to 2006 levels.
Regulators like EASA are tasked with certifying aircraft against noise standards. These standards are defined in ICAO Annex 16 standards, Volume I. The industry continues to develop solutions to meet increasingly stringent environmental protection standards.
Technology Details and Performance
The newly approved system is a retrofit noise solution designed to mitigate airframe noise. Airframe noise is the sound generated by non-propulsive parts of the aircraft. This noise is most noticeable during the approach and landing phases. The technology includes modifications to the landing gear and high-lift devices.
Research has shown the effectiveness of such modifications. For instance, the German Aerospace Center (DLR) demonstrated significant results. Retrofitting an Airbus A320 test aircraft achieved a three-decibel decrease in flyover noise. This reduction is perceived by people on the ground as about a 30 percent decrease in noise. NASA has also tested similar concepts, achieving a greater than 70 percent reduction in airframe noise reduction during landing tests. The EASA approval validates the application of this advanced technology for commercial operations.
Industry and Fleet Impact
The technology’s availability for new and existing aircraft is critical for airlines. It allows operators of older fleets, including models from Airbus and Boeing, to upgrade their aircraft. This is typically done through Supplemental Type Certificates (STCs). The STC process ensures the modification meets all safety and performance requirements.
Operational and Financial Considerations
- Compliance: The approval helps airlines meet current and future noise restrictions at major hubs.
- Community Relations: Reducing airport community noise is vital for maintaining social license to operate.
- Retrofit Challenge: Airlines must manage the cost and downtime required for installation.
- Fuel Efficiency: Developers must ensure the noise-reduction components do not significantly increase aircraft weight or aerodynamic drag.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) and its members view noise reduction as a key sustainability pillar. The European Commission has set an ambitious goal. It aims for a 65 percent decrease in perceived aircraft noise levels by 2050 compared to the year 2000. This EASA approval provides a certified tool to help achieve that goal. This is important commercial aviation news for all stakeholders. Read more on the latest industry developments at [flying.flights].
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Written by
Ujjwal SukhwaniAviation News Editor & Industry Analyst delivering clear coverage for a worldwide audience.
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