Analysis of noise optimal approach procedures with on-site statistical meteorological effect

Paper in proceeding, 2025

This study uses a design space exploration methodology to investigate the potential noise reduction benefits from optimized precision approach procedures. Different procedure designs are generated by varying the turn radii of the procedure’s curved segments and each design is evaluated based on its noise impact on the population. Using an existing procedure at Arlanda airport in Stockholm, it is demonstrated that by varying the horizontal procedure design with essentially no impact on fuel burn and emissions, the noise-affected population is reduced by approximately 5000 individuals, under standard atmospheric conditions. When local meteorological data are included, this reduction is significantly diminished to less than 350. The selected conditions lead to an increase in the noise-affected area, reducing the benefits of the noise optimal procedure. The findings highlight the importance of incorporating meteorological conditions in procedure design to perform a realistic assessment of the noise impact on the population.