Airports are known to be a major source of noise pollution and studies suggest a link between airport noise and health problems.  Stress and hypertension are the most common effects of chronic noise. Airport noise has also been shown to affect sleep patterns whether or not the noise awakens the sleeper, and the subliminal noise causes aggressive behavior in the wakened state. Industrial studies have shown a reduction in efficiency and ability to perform complex tasks when there is irritating or unexpected noise. Persons who suffer migraines report headaches can be triggered by airplane takeoffs at nearby airports. Another impact of airport noise is increased anxiety and levels of annoyance among people who live in areas around airports.

Studies of children in airport neighborhoods show a marked reduction in learning ability and long term memory function. Behavioral problems in children include helplessness and inattentiveness due to tuning out noise.

Protecting neighbors from noise is largely optional for airports. Of more than 500 commercial airports in the United States, only 231 participate in voluntary curfews to reduce chronic noise. Some of the busiest airports are not participating, including New York's LaGuardia Airport with 195,000 people living in its vicinity and Miami International Airport with 164,000 area residents, according to the National Resources Defense Council (NRDC).

San Diego International Airport, on the other hand, has been pro-active for 20 years in reducing noise with strict curfews despite increased traffic. Other good news is that since 2000, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has mandated certification of newer, quieter airplanes as Stage 3 and Stage 4 aircraft based on their noise reduction. Older Stage 2 aircraft can only fly if they have been retrofitted to meet lower noise standards.  This has resulted in a reduction of noise near airports in spite of growth in the airline industry and an increase of flights.

Airport noise has long been associated with reduced property values. Homes near airports are worth approximately 10% less than similar homes in other ares. Not much can change this reality, but local governments, backed by federal funding, are committed to residential insulation programs to assist homeowners and improve the sound quality inside their homes. The goal of the programs is to make it easier for homeowners to talk on the phone, listen to music, watch TV, hold a conversation or take a nap. Proper sound insulation not only provides the homeowner with a quieter interior, but also offers long-term improvements and increased efficiency in their heating and cooling systems. These services are 100% free to the homeowner. If you live near an airport, contact the mayor for further information and to find out if you are eligible for sound abatement. 

Resources:

Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), U.S. Department of Transportation, Washington, D.C.
www.faa.gov

National Resources Defense Council (NRDC), 40 W 20th St, NY, NY 10011, 1-212-727-2700
www.nrdc.org