Why takeoffs at airports are about to become noisier

**Why Takeoffs at Airports Are About to Become Noisier**
*By Dwaipayan Roy | Sep 24, 2025 | 8:00 PM*

A recent study from the University of Reading has revealed that climate change could lead to increased noise pollution from departing airplanes around European airports. The research focuses on how rising air temperatures affect aircraft take-off patterns, finding that on average, departing aircraft climb angles will decrease by 1-3%, with some particularly hot days potentially reducing these angles by as much as 7.5%.

**Potential Impact on Noise Levels**

The study examined noise levels at 30 European airports, with a special focus on Airbus A320 aircraft—commonly used for short European flights—and how changes in climb angles affect noise pollution as the climate changes. Dr. Jonny Williams, lead author of the study, warned that climate change could expose thousands more people in London to noise pollution from departing aircraft over the next three decades.

Currently, approximately 60,000 people live within the 50dB noise footprint of a typical A320 aircraft in central London. However, due to climate change and increasing population density, an additional 2,500 people could be brought within this noise boundary in the near future.

**The Role of Sound Frequencies**

Dr. Williams explained that the problem is intensified by different types of sound frequencies. Low-frequency noise, which travels further distances, is expected to increase the most. These deeper sounds are particularly concerning as they can contribute to stress and disrupt sleep, raising public health concerns.

**Looking Ahead: Challenges Beyond Technology**

Despite advancements in engine technology aimed at reducing noise, Dr. Williams cautioned that rising temperatures caused by unchecked greenhouse gas emissions will make managing airport noise more difficult. Without decisive action on climate change, these environmental factors could outweigh technological improvements, exacerbating noise pollution issues around airports.

This study highlights the complex challenges climate change poses not only to the environment but also to urban living conditions, emphasizing the need for integrated approaches to mitigate its diverse impacts on society.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/science/climate-change-could-worsen-noise-pollution-from-departing-aircraft-study/story

Cyberattack on airport systems causes major disruptions at European airports

**Cyberattack on Airport Systems Causes Major Disruptions at European Airports**

*By Snehil Singh | Sep 20, 2025, 04:18 PM*

A cyberattack targeting a service provider responsible for check-in and boarding systems has triggered significant disruptions at several major European airports, including London Heathrow, Brussels, and Berlin. The attack resulted in massive flight delays and cancellations, affecting thousands of passengers across the continent.

**Impact on Airports and Passengers**

Brussels Airport confirmed that its automated services were down, forcing staff to revert to manual processes for passenger handling. “This has a large impact on the flight schedule and will unfortunately cause delays and cancellations of flights,” the airport stated.

Heathrow Airport warned departing passengers to expect delays and advised travelers to regularly check their flight status before heading to the airport.

Similarly, Berlin Airport reported longer waiting times at check-in due to the technical issues stemming from the cyberattack. A statement on the airport’s website read, “Due to a technical issue at a system provider operating across Europe, there are longer waiting times at check-in.”

Passengers traveling from affected airports have been urged to confirm their travel plans directly with airlines to avoid unexpected disruptions.

**Airports Unaffected by the Cyberattack**

Despite the widespread impact, some airports remained operational without disruption. Frankfurt Airport, Germany’s largest airport, confirmed normal operations during the incident.

In Poland, Deputy Prime Minister and Digital Affairs Minister Krzysztof Gawkowski reassured the public that there were no threats to Polish airports. He added that authorities were maintaining communication with counterparts in other European countries to monitor the situation.

Zurich Airport also confirmed it was not affected by the cyberattack, according to an official from its operations control center.

**Ongoing Technical Issues**

The cyberattack targeted systems provided by Collins Aerospace, a global company specializing in aviation technology. The company continues to face technical issues as it works to resolve the problems caused by the attack.

Collins Aerospace’s parent company, RTX Corporation, was not immediately available for comment outside of U.S. business hours.

Travelers are advised to stay updated on flight statuses and plan accordingly as airports work through the aftermath of this cyberattack.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/world/cyberattack-disrupts-flights-at-london-brussels-other-major-european-airports/story

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