Noise is generally defined as “unwanted sound”. Annoyance is one of the primary effects of aircraft noise, and is related to individual preferences – that is, how “unwanted” a particular sound might be. Besides loudness of sound, several other factors contribute to annoyance. The following table lists examples of such factors:
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Factors that affect Individual Annoyance to Noise |
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Primary |
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Secondary |
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Nonacoustic factors |
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Source: C.M. Harris. Handbook of Noise Control, 2nd Ed.. New York: McGraw-Hill, 1979.
Most research on annoyance has shown significant variability in annoyance. If exposed to noisy environments, people generally prefer to reduce the noise loudness, avoid it, or leave the noisy area if possible. The same noise could be annoying to some people but acceptable to others. There is no definite relationship between the degree of annoyance or unpleasantness of noise and the risk of adverse health effects. For example, very loud music may be pleasant to one group of people and annoying to another group. Both groups will be equally at risk of hearing loss.