The UK Civil Aviation Authority has published a report setting out how noise from drones and electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft (eVTOLs) could be assessed and managed as the technologies move towards wider commercial use.
Managing Noise from Emerging Aviation Technology (CAP3304) says drones and eVTOLs are expected to be quieter than conventional helicopters operating in similar roles, but could create different patterns of noise exposure.
Different operating patterns
The report notes that these aircraft may operate at lower altitudes, closer to homes and across areas not traditionally affected by aircraft noise. Their noise characteristics, frequency of operation and visibility could all influence how communities experience them.
Commercial drone activity is expected to grow over the coming decade, with potential uses including infrastructure inspection, emergency response, logistics and the transport of medical supplies. Early eVTOL applications could include airport transfers, regional connectivity and support for emergency services.
The CAA says increased activity could bring connectivity and economic benefits, including more efficient services and less reliance on noisier or more carbon-intensive transport. It also says successful deployment will depend on understanding and managing impacts on communities as operations move beyond trials and into routine use.
Priorities for emerging operations
CAP3304 identifies quieter aircraft design, proportionate noise assessments, suitable routes and operating procedures, transparent community engagement, accessible complaints processes and systematic collection of operational and noise data as priorities.
Ed Weston, Head of Environmental Research and Consultancy at the CAA, said: “Taking the opportunity to improve our understanding and develop good practice while the sector is still emerging and expanding is vital.
“A clear and proportionate approach to noise can protect communities, give operators greater certainty and support the responsible scaling of these new technologies and services that can deliver genuine public and economic benefits.”
The report supports the Department for Transport’s work on a national noise policy for drones. It recommends that initial policy should provide a proportionate and consistent framework for trials, early deployments and emerging commercial services, while allowing the approach to evolve as operational experience and evidence develop.
The work forms part of the CAA’s wider Future of Flight programme, which is focused on the safe integration of drones and eVTOL aircraft into UK airspace while maintaining standards for safety, security and environmental protection.