Evaluation criteria for aircraft noise

Based on extensive and detailed reviews the present paper suggests evaluation limits for aircraft noise for the prediction of noise effects and for the protection of residents living in the vicinity of (newly constructed or extended) civil airports. The protection concept provides graded assessment values: Critical Limits indicate noise loads that shall be tolerated only exceptionally during a limited time. Protection Guides are central assessment values for taking actions to reduce noise imission. Threshold values inform about measurable physiological and psychological reactions due to noise exposures where long term adverse health effects are not expected. Evaluation limits are provided for various protection goals. Apart from hearing damage, evaluation limits are provided for the avoidance of primary extraaural effects on communication and on sleep, for the avoidance of annoyance as a secondary effect and for the avoidance of suspected cardiovascular diseases. Such limits enable authorities to outline the areas around airports, where appropriate measures are mandatory to protect residents against the deleterious effects of noise. Protecting residents is a dynamic process that must be followed up. The evaluation limits must be repeatedly tested in view of new scientific findings and adapted, if necessary.