Noise exposure of spectators at Finnish air shows

The noise exposure of spectators were measured at three Finnish air shows. Fixed and rotary-wing and both civil and military aircraft performed manoeuvres. The noise evaluation consisted of the total noise description on a minute- by-minute basis, analyses of the maximum sound pressure level of certain events, a noise dose analysis of aircraft manoeuvring displays, and a noise dose analysis of spectators, firemen, first-aid personnel and spectators. The noise doses of the spectators varied from 84 to 92 dB and the maximum levels measured near the spectators ranged from 100 to 115 dB. The noise levels measured during the manoeuvres of jet fighters over the area ranged from 83 to 104 dB. The dose did not exceed current recommended levels for long-time exposure, however, high instantaneous sound pressure levels can cause tinnitus and temporary threshold shift. This type of noise can be unpleasant, and some persons are even sensitive to this kind of noise. Therefore hearing protectors should be available for sensitive persons at air shows.