KP Acoustics Research Labs - Innovative Approach to Combat Airport Anxiety

 

London, UK – January 31, 2025 – KP Acoustics Research Labs, led by Prof. Chris Barlow, Head of Research and Innovation, addresses the growing issue of airport anxiety through innovative soundscape design.

 

Travel through busy airports can be overwhelming, with 'airport anxiety' being a recognised problem for many travellers. In Q1 of 2024, Heathrow Airport saw a record 18.5 million passengers, highlighting the potential impact on travellers. Airport anxiety can start at a low level but has the potential to grow, especially if a traveller has a negative experience. Triggers can include fear of missing a flight, crowds, security concerns, loud noises, or unfamiliar environments. This anxiety is exacerbated for individuals already suffering from stress, with noise being a significant contributor.

 

Research shows that even relatively low levels of sound can trigger a stress response, releasing stress hormones into the bloodstream. This stress from noise can continue to affect performance long after exposure. At least 20% of the UK adult population are neurodiverse, with conditions such as autism or ADHD, making them more sensitive to complex or noisy environments like airports.

 

The concept of Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) focuses on creating healthy and comfortable buildings by considering factors such as thermal comfort, visual comfort, indoor air quality, and acoustic comfort. Acoustic comfort is defined as the perceived state of well-being and satisfaction with the acoustical conditions in an environment. Traditional IEQ models for acoustics focused on empirical measurements of sound, but recent research shows that factors such as context and quality of sound have a higher impact on perceived acoustic comfort.

 

Soundscaping addresses these issues by improving acoustic comfort through the design of the sound environment rather than just noise control. It involves integrating pleasant sounds into a space to create a positive perception, making the environment feel more relaxing or vibrant, depending on the intended use. Soundscape design works alongside visual aspects such as biophilic design and lighting to enhance comfort, reduce stress, and promote restoration.

 

Airports are complex spaces with high levels of footfall and movement, making overall noise control challenging. Premium airport lounges offer some respite but are often expensive and limited. An inclusive approach to airport anxiety considers the journey from the perspective of all users, making common areas comfortable and low-stress while providing break-out points for those experiencing heightened anxiety.

 

This staged approach includes controlling reflected sound at key locations, building positive and restorative soundscapes, and incorporating regular quiet spaces along the pathway. These measures help reduce the continuous build-up of anxiety as passengers travel from check-in to departure.

 

KP Acoustics Research Labs' innovative soundscaping approach offers significant potential to address airport anxiety, making travel more pleasurable and less stressful for millions of passengers.

 

For more information, please contact: KP Acoustics Research Labs research@kpacoustics.com | 02382 544 965

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