Fairness perspectives of airport residents: A qualitative approach

Abstract

Long-term exposure to aircraft noise has been linked to various negative health impacts, with annoyance playing a key role in mediating stress-related health effects. Fairness can be seen as a fundamental aspect potentially reducing annoyance reactions. This study delves into the concept of fairness within airport management, drawing on research from fields such as social and organizational psychology. It specifically examines the viewpoint of noise-affected residents, offering insights into their perception of fairness in regard to airport management. The research involved focus group discussions and in-depth interviews at three different European airports in Germany and France. These sessions were transcribed and analyzed using qualitative content analysis. Participants were surveyed based on their exposure to lower (≤55 dB L_den) and higher (>55 dB L_den) levels of aircraft noise. The findings indicate that distributive, procedural, informational, and interpersonal fairness are viewed as important elements for fostering a fair and neighborly relationship with the airport. Residents emphasized the importance of receiving adequate compensation for the disadvantages they incur due to their proximity to the airport, such as aircraft noise-related sleep disturbance. Additionally, residents expressed the need for earnest inclusion in the decision-making processes, as well as access transparent information. Additional focus group discussions were conducted to validate the results and to gather input from affected residents, aiming to establish a fair and neighborly relationship. Based on these insights, recommendations are formulated for airport managers from the perspective of the affected residents, emphasizing the aim of fostering a fair and neighborly relationship.