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Noise emissions from drones

To prevent drone traffic from becoming just as noisy as normal road traffic, the EASA has now presented a standardized tool for measuring the noise emissions of drones. The aim is to make drone traffic more environmentally friendly and integrate it into the "modern" city.

Background of noise emissions

Due to the rapidly growing drone sector and the development of new, larger drones, increased noise emissions can be expected. The volume of the rotors usually depends on the total weight of the drone. This means that the larger the UAS, the louder its rotors are. However, it should be noted that drones are also constantly being revised and tested with regard to their propulsion. Low-noise rotors are particularly important for the future use of drones, as they will be allowed to fly in city centers in the future, according to Urban Air Mobility. The sound pressure and sound intensity of the drive types have now been intensively examined and analyzed by EASA.

Standardized tool

The method for measuring noise emissions initially only applies to drones in the "Specific" category. The official title of the method is "Guidelines on Noise Measurement of Unmanned Aircraft Systems Lighter than 600 kg Operating in the Specific Category (Low and Medium Risk)". According to this, the noise level should be measured during an inspection or added directly to the drone delivery. The corresponding EASA document provides a database for the various drone types and models, which both drone manufacturers and operators are required to adhere to. In future, authorities and institutions will use the values in this database as a basis for establishing noise protection areas, such as nature conservation areas.

The legal anchoring of this method and the completion of the analysis of noise emissions is in full swing. However, the perception of noise is very important even after finalization. The rotors of the drones produce a noise that is not typical of the environment and can be clearly distinguished from others. Therefore, despite the noise reduction, the drones will always be clearly audible.