“When compared with conventional helicopters operating in similar roles, drones and eVTOL aircraft are expected to be quieter,” said the UK’s national aviation regulator. “As these technologies continue to develop, and new business models emerge, understanding how noise is experienced by communities will help support their safe and sustainable integration into UK airspace.
“The new Civil Aviation Publication: Managing Noise from Emerging Aviation Technology (CAP3304), finds that drones and eVTOL aircraft may create different patterns of noise exposure from conventional aviation as these technologies become more widely used. Despite being quieter than conventional helicopters, both of these technologies may operate differently, including at lower altitudes, closer to homes and across areas not traditionally affected by aircraft noise. These factors, such as noise characteristics, frequency of operation and visibility, may influence community experience.“
The report considers how established aviation noise-management principles could be adapted for these new operations, says the CAA. It identifies priorities including quieter aircraft design, proportionate noise assessment, appropriate route and operating procedures, transparent community engagement, accessible complaints arrangements and the systematic collection of operational and noise data.
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