Decibel

Noise is a critical factor in the aviation industry, affecting passenger comfort, pilot safety, airport operations, and environmental regulations. The unit used to measure sound intensity in aviation is the decibel (dB). Understanding decibel levels in aviation helps explain aircraft noise, airport restrictions, and advancements in quieter aircraft technology. This article explores what a decibel is, how it is used in aviation, its importance, and how aircraft noise is controlled.

Decibel (dB)

What Is a Decibel (dB)?

A decibel (dB) is a logarithmic unit used to measure sound intensity or sound pressure level. Because human hearing responds logarithmically to sound, the decibel scale accurately represents how loud sounds are perceived.

In aviation, decibels measure:

Aircraft engine noise

Takeoff and landing noise

Cabin noise levels

Airport environmental noise

Why Decibel Measurement Is Important in Aviation

Decibel measurement plays a vital role in aviation for several reasons:

Passenger comfort and safety

Crew hearing protection

Noise pollution control

Compliance with international aviation regulations

Aircraft design and certification

High noise levels can cause fatigue, stress, and long-term hearing damage, making decibel monitoring essential.

Common Decibel Levels in Aviation

Approximate Noise Level

Aviation Sound Source

Quiet aircraft cabin

60–70 dB

Normal conversation

60 dB

Jet engine at idle

80–90 dB

Turbofan engine during takeoff

120–140 dB

Helicopter close range

100–110 dB

Airport runway area

90–120 dB

Sounds above 85 dB can cause hearing damage with prolonged exposure.

How Decibel Levels Are Measured in Aviation

Aviation noise is measured using specialized sound level meters placed:

Near runways

Around airports

Inside aircraft cabins

At pilot and crew positions

Noise is often measured in:

dB(A) – weighted for human hearing

EPNdB (Effective Perceived Noise in Decibels) – used in aircraft certification

Aircraft Noise Certification Standards

International aviation authorities regulate aircraft noise using decibel limits.

Key Organizations:

ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization)

FAA (Federal Aviation Administration)

EASA (European Union Aviation Safety Agency)

Aircraft must meet strict noise certification standards during:

Takeoff

Approach

Flyover

Aircraft are categorized into noise stages or chapters, with newer aircraft being significantly quieter.

Impact of Decibel Levels on Pilots and Crew

Pilots and cabin crew are exposed to continuous noise during flights. High decibel exposure can lead to:

Hearing loss

Fatigue and stress

Reduced concentration

Communication difficulties

Modern aircraft use sound insulation, noise-canceling headsets, and quieter engines to reduce noise exposure.

Aircraft Noise Reduction Technologies

To reduce decibel levels in aviation, manufacturers use:

High-bypass turbofan engines

Advanced engine nacelle designs

Sound-absorbing materials

Improved aerodynamic structures

Quieter landing gear systems

These technologies help airlines comply with noise regulations and improve passenger comfort.

Environmental Impact of Aviation Noise

Aircraft noise affects communities living near airports. Excessive decibel levels can cause:

Sleep disturbance

Increased stress levels

Reduced property values

As a result, many airports enforce:

Curfews

Noise abatement procedures

Flight path optimization

Future of Noise Control in Aviation

The aviation industry continues to focus on reducing decibel levels through:

Electric and hybrid aircraft

Sustainable aviation fuel (SAF)

Advanced propeller designs

AI-optimized flight paths

Future aircraft are expected to be significantly quieter, benefiting both passengers and surrounding communities.

Conclusion

The decibel in aviation is a crucial measurement that influences aircraft design, safety standards, environmental regulations, and passenger comfort. By monitoring and controlling decibel levels, the aviation industry continues to reduce noise pollution while improving operational efficiency. As technology advances, quieter and more sustainable aviation will become the industry standard.

MORE:

Aerospace Blogs

AEROMACHINEX BLOG: SUBSCRIBE

Aircraft Maintenance Technician, Cabin Maintenance vacancy in Delta airlines, US

Location: UNITED STATES, MASSACHUSETTS, BOSTON HOW YOU'LL HELP THEM KEEP CLIMBING (OVERVIEW & KEY RESPONSIBILITIES) The Aircraft Maintenance Technician (AMT) is a critical TechOps role at Delta.  In this role, you will maintain the proper and safe functioning of Delta’s fleet, ensuring customers have an exceptional travel experience.  AMTs maintain aircraft, aircraft engines, and aircraft components and avionics systems according to Delta and FAA specifications; perform inspections during assembly of parts and after repair or installation of components; document maintenance procedures including component damage, origin, and condition; and practice safety conscious behaviors in all operational processes and procedures.  Summary of responsibilities (not comprehensive of all tasks): Performs all work activities in accordance with established laws, regulations, standards, safety protocols, and procedures to ensure safety of self and others.  Inspects aircraft o...

Cabin Mechanic vacancy in Ryanair, U.K.

Location: Stansted, United Kingdom Employment Type: Full-time Cabin Mechanic Description Cabin Mechanic: Ryanair is officially the Number 1 International Airline and operates more than 2000 flights per day from 87 Bases across Europe and North Africa with 1800+ Low Fare Routes across 33 countries, connecting 205 destinations. AES (Aircraft Engineering Services) are currently recruiting for a Cabin Mechanic to be based at London Stansted Airport. Responsibilities for the role of the Cabin Mechanic will include: Carry out rectifications for aircraft interior defects. Carry out special requests for aircraft defects raised by Aircraft Appearance Department Ensure rectifications are reported daily. Assist other Engineering groups Monitor stock levels of materials required to fulfil duties. Ensure correct reporting procedures are applied and accurate daily reports are logged and sent to Aircraft Appearance Department. Requirements of the Cabin Mechanic: Aircraft / Maintenance / Cabin Trim ...

Light Maintenance | Aircraft Mechanic vacancy in Qatar airways, Qatar

Location: Doha, Qatar About the role They are recruiting for Aircraft Mechanic with Light Maintenance to be based in Doha, Qatar. Aircraft Mechanic will be responsible to deliver Aircraft Maintenance services to support the operational requirements as directed by their supervisor and will ensure all maintenance and related activities are performed in accordance with the company/customer procedures and supplied aircraft maintenance data. Specific responsibilities of the role include: Operational Conducts tests and inspections of products, services or processes to evaluate quality or performance. Adjust, aligns and calibrates aircraft systems, using hand tools, gauges and test equipment. Examines and inspects engines or other components for cracks, breaks or leaks. Dissembles and inspects parts for wear, warping or other defects. Assembles and installs electrical, plumbing mechanical, hydraulic and structural components and accessories using hand tools and power tools. Services, cleaning...

Aircraft Technician - Line Maintenance vacancy in Emirates, UAE

Location: Dubai, UAE Job Purpose Responsible for carrying out maintenance tasks on Emirates and third party aircraft components in accordance with company procedures and regulations. The Aircraft Technician works as part of a team under the direction and guidance of the assigned Licensed Aircraft Engineer within the appropriate trade/cross trade disciplines for which they have been trained Job Outline: - Carry out routine aircraft/engine/component servicing/ maintenance and/or approved structural repairs compliant to manufacturers procedures whilst observing all safety procedures for fluid replenishment, aircraft refuelling, aircraft systems charging/servicing as required. - Complete any component replacement and other maintenance activities as directed by immediate Supervisor. This will include the ability to obtain and understand Aircraft Maintenance Manual (AMM), Illustrated Parts catalogue (IPC), Component Maintenance Manual (CMM) or other approved documentation required to carry...

Trimmable Horizontal Stabilizer

The trimmable horizontal stabilizer (THS) is a key component of modern aircraft tail design, responsible for maintaining longitudinal stability and enabling precise control of the aircraft’s pitch. Unlike fixed stabilizers, a trimmable stabilizer can change its angle of incidence relative to the fuselage. This adjustability allows it to balance the aerodynamic forces acting on the aircraft, reduce pilot workload, and improve efficiency during different phases of flight. Purpose of a Horizontal Stabilizer The horizontal stabilizer is located at the tail of the aircraft and serves as a balancing surface to counteract the nose-down pitching moment generated by the wings and engines. Its primary functions are: Maintaining longitudinal stability. Assisting in pitch control when combined with the elevator. Providing trim adjustments to minimize continuous control input by the pilot. Trimmable vs. Non-Trimmable Stabilizers Fixed Horizontal Stabilizer with Elevator Trim Tabs: In smaller aircra...

Aircraft Mechanic, Line maintenance vacancy in United airlines, Taiwan

The role's job includes all work generally recognized as Aircraft Mechanic work in Company designated stations. This may include power plants, Line, ETOPS, TDY (fueling), parts, ground equipment, facilities and other related work as directed by leadership. Location: Taipei, Taiwan Aircraft Mechanic are responsible for all work being performed on shift. Aircraft Mechanic may be required to test, check, and certify for service work performed. Perform all aspects of aircraft maintenance work including servicing, repair, and proper work documentation in accordance with company procedures and specifications May require to exercise Aircraft Release Authority Demonstrate initiative and leadership to other mechanic Receive and dispatch arriving/departing aircraft. Perform other duties as assigned, such as towing, refueling, etc. This position is offered on local terms and conditions. Expatriate assignments and sponsorship for employment visas, even on a time-limited visa status, will n...

Aircraft Technician ( Cabin Maintenance) vacancy in Delta airlines, USA

The Aircraft Technician is a critical TechOps role at Delta.  In this role, you will maintain the proper and safe functioning of Delta’s fleet, ensuring customers have an exceptional travel experience.  Aircraft Technician maintain aircraft, aircraft engines, and aircraft components and avionics systems according to Delta and FAA specifications; perform inspections during assembly of parts and after repair or installation of components; document maintenance procedures including component damage, origin, and condition; and practice safety conscious behaviors in all operational processes and procedures. Location: US , MASSACHUSETTS , BOSTON Summary of responsibilities (not comprehensive of all tasks) of Aircraft Technician: Performs all work activities in accordance with established laws, regulations, standards, safety protocols, and procedures to ensure safety of self and others. Inspects aircraft or aircraft components, including landing gear, hydraulic systems, tires, and engines f...

Aircraft Mechanic vacancy in Ryanair, Poland | Entry level

Location: Wrocław, Poland Description ✈Heavy maintenance of Boeing 737-800 servicing for the Part-145 organization, ✈Working under the supervision of licensed B1 / B2 / C staff, ✈Working with technical documentation (AMM, SRM, IPC, FIM, etc.), ✈Working with a workshop team (structural and composite repairs), ✈Working with the AMOS system. ✈Assisting mechanics and engineers in daily aircraft repair ✈Ensuring all jobs are done in time and in accordance with requirements ✈Ensuring all training are done in time ✈Other duties related to aircraft repair Requirements ✈Experience in working as an aircraft mechanic on Boeing 737-800 ✈Good knowledge of English (written and oral) ✈Willing to work in shift system ✈Attention to detail, manual skills Benefits ✈Employment based on an employment contract, ✈Competitive salary DISCLAIMER: AeroMachineX just provide information regarding the vacancies in various companies and is not liable for any consequences that might arise during the job applicati...

Aircraft Technician, Base Maintenance vacancy in Emirates, UAE

Aircraft Technician is responsible for carrying out maintenance tasks on Emirates and third party aircraft components in accordance with company procedures and regulations. The Aircraft Technician works as part of a team under the direction and guidance of the assigned Licensed Aircraft Engineer within the appropriate trade/cross trade disciplines for which they have been trained Location: Dubai, UAE Job Outline of Aircraft Technician Carry out routine aircraft/engine/component servicing/ maintenance and/or approved structural repairs compliant to manufacturers procedures whilst observing all safety procedures for fluid replenishment, aircraft refuelling, aircraft systems charging/servicing as required. Complete any component replacement and other maintenance activities as directed by immediate Supervisor. This will include the ability to obtain and understand Aircraft Maintenance Manual (AMM), Illustrated Parts catalogue (IPC), Component Maintenance Manual (CMM) or other approved d...

Search This Blog