Low frequency noise generated by aircraft during pre-takeoff, takeoff, landing and post-landing operations equates to high levels of undesirable ground noise pollution. This phenomenon is gaining heightened popular interest among air transportation specialists and agencies as urban settlements and airports expand beyond postwar city limits to meet demands of the 21st Century. Several European airports including Paris, Frankfurt and Munich are seriously investigating these profound impacts on future airport activities and local environments.

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol’s (AAS) Polder Runway 18R-36L best exemplifies the disturbance caused by low frequency ground noise under specific atmospheric and topographical conditions.

Whispering Wind is an innovative passive and active architectural proposal combating and mitigating low and broadband (31.5Hz to +200Hz) frequencies generated by larger and / or older aircraft engines and cooling systems. The proposal prioritizes noise attenuation and deflection / scattering of undesired wavelengths to enhance the quality of life and lifestyles in the Hoofddorp settlements. It introduces the use of large Helmholtz resonators capable of creating a 12m virtual extension above and beyond the proposed landscape and large parabolic absorbers and sound catchers to increase surface absorption areas along the runway.

To meet the AAS’s targets on future expansion Whispering Wind adapts unique sustainable solutions towards ground noise mitigation, environmental and economic conservation and soil & water management by using tested and proven materials to form the main landscape and by introducing a Phase 2 surge flood reservoir capable of accomodating plug-in floating barge developments. The vision capitalizes on negative connotations attributed to ground noise by transforming them into assets suggesting novel high-tech facilities while addressing new and future airport technologies.

The formal / functional design qualities of the Whispering Wind facility mould themselves to the polder landscape and airport by taking on aerodynamic shapes defined by stringent acoustic, environmental, programmatic, economic and legal requirements imposed on the site. The innovative use of landscaping, geometry, materials and alternative energies defines a new generation of air travel aesthetics and lifestyles.

This proposal is not a ‘Barrier’ it is a ‘Noise Reduction Facility’ welcoming surrounding communities, air travelers, recreationists and Schiphol Airport’s futuristic visions paving the way towards conscientious sustainable airport design and management. By proposing research & development laboratories and multipurpose spaces AAS will bridge a market gap in providing consulting services on new ground noise mitigation solutions. Such expertise will be provided to existing international airports and related industries seeking new options and to future airport agencies planning preemptive noise and air pollution strategies to meet and or exceed international health and safety standards.

The legal requirements imposed by the ICAO, Municipality of Haarlemmermeer, LIB and AAS have been carefully reviewed, interpreted and implemented. The main area facing the runway can be developed, landscaped and erected within 18 months without affecting daily air traffic operations on the Polder Runway.

Design Team: C.Richter (Aeroacoustics), B.Greschner (CFD), M.Tamke (Digital Fabrication), N.Palz (BIM), J.Breider (Structural) & E.Barlieb (Finances).