Assessing the effect of airport operations on air quality and noise in nearby communities

The EU research call “Assessing the effect of airport operations on air quality and noise in nearby communities” offers a two-year grant under the Horizon Europe program (MOBILITY) with a funding volume of up to €7 million. Eligible applicants include companies, research institutions, non-profit and public organizations from EU member states as well as associated countries. The objective is a comprehensive investigation of emissions (exhaust gases, particulate matter, noise) and water pollution caused by ground traffic, takeoff/landing, and apron operations at airports. This will combine real-time measurements, pilot studies at at least two airports, as well as in vitro and remote sensing analyses. Novel methods are to be developed to quantify the health and ecological impacts, emission factors refined, and optimized measurement and certification processes proposed. Special attention is given to unregulated particles (e.g., brake wear, organic aerosols) as well as low-emission operational concepts (APU/GPU comparison). The results are to be incorporated into air quality and noise action plans as well as national and European emission inventories.

A consortium must consist of at least three independent partners from different EU/associated countries and demonstrate financial and operational capacity. Research institutions or airport operators must be involved. Funding covers personnel, material, and travel costs, equipment, and subcontracting services up to 100% of eligible expenses; real estate acquisitions and retrospective costs are excluded. Selection will be based on the criteria “degree of innovation,” “relevance to environment and health,” and “quality of the consortium.” The complete project description, a financing plan, CVs of key personnel, a market analysis, and an ethics questionnaire must be submitted electronically by no later than April 14, 2027, 5 p.m. CET. With the 100% funding rate, airports, municipalities, and residents will be directly relieved, and the foundation for evidence-based measures to reduce air and noise pollution in airport regions will be established.