Aircraft-related noises increased but compensation decreased in Chinese airports

Abstract

The rapid development of the aviation industry has brought convenience and noise hazards, altering the modes of travel but adversely affecting public health. Noise pollution is one of the essential factors affecting public health. This study offers a comprehensive examination of noise pollution data associated with the aviation industry, focusing on an array of airlines operating over 400 domestic routes within China from 2014 to 2019. It scrutinizes the noise emissions during the Lateral, Flyover, and Approach phases. It employs European Union standards to derive a formula for noise compensation relative to passenger volume, elucidating the quantum of noise indemnity allocable per passenger. (1) An upward trend in noise emissions is observed annually within China's civil aviation sector, with marked disparities in emission levels across various airports and airlines. (2) The mean annual value of noise compensation has shown a general decline, with China Express Airlines assuming a principal role in these compensations. (3) There is a correlation between noise compensation, noise emissions, and passenger volumes. Utilizing aircraft with low-emission and high passenger capacities significantly reduces airline compensation costs and safeguards the health of passengers and nearby residents.