The noise pollution caused by aircraft can be measured directly or computed using a noise prediction program. In the case of future traffic scenarios, for example for new airports or airport extensions, the only option is to compute the aircraft noise. Aircraft noise prediction programs are therefore an important tool for airport planning. These programs are commonly based on legal guidelines and use a clearly defined calculation method (e.g. the German AzB) and simplify the predictions which would otherwise be carried out by hand.
Aircraft noise prediction tools can also be used as an alternative to measurements for research into aircraft-noise related topics. Some examples from the aircraft noise group include: