NASA Explores How People Respond to Air Taxi Noise

Research aims to understand public perception and integrate new aircraft sounds into urban soundscapes.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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NASA is conducting extensive research, including the VANGARD study in major cities, to investigate how people react to the sounds produced by electric air taxis and other advanced air mobility vehicles. Initial findings suggest residents in noisier urban environments are more bothered by these new aircraft sounds compared to those in quieter suburban areas.

Why it matters

As air taxis and drones become more prevalent in cities, understanding public perception of the associated noise is crucial for successful integration into urban environments. The data collected will help inform the design of quieter aircraft and guide regulations on flight paths and operations to minimize noise impact.

The details

The VANGARD study, involving 359 participants in Los Angeles, New York City, and Dallas-Fort Worth, simulated aircraft sounds without revealing the manufacturers. Researchers found that individuals already accustomed to high levels of ambient noise may be more sensitive to additional sound intrusion from air taxis. This research aims to understand how to blend new aircraft sounds into existing urban soundscapes, rather than eliminate noise entirely.

  • The VANGARD test was conducted recently in major U.S. cities.
  • NASA's X-59, designed to reduce sonic booms, recently took its first flight.

The players

NASA

The U.S. National Aeronautics and Space Administration, which is actively investigating public response to air taxi noise and using the findings to guide aircraft design and operational procedures.

Sidd Krishnamurthy

The lead researcher at NASA's Langley Research Center, who explains the need to understand how people will react to future aircraft sounds as air taxis become more common.

Joby Aviation

A leading air taxi developer that is focusing on blending its aircraft into urban soundscapes, highlighting the importance of considering the acoustic environment when introducing new air transportation options.

National League of Cities (NLC)

An organization that has launched an Aviation Forum to help cities prepare for the arrival of air taxis and drones, recognizing the need for coordinated planning and regulation to ensure the safe and efficient integration of these vehicles into urban environments.

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What they’re saying

“With air taxis coming soon, we need to understand how people will react to a variety of future aircraft sounds.”

— Sidd Krishnamurthy, Lead Researcher, NASA's Langley Research Center (newsy-today.com)

What’s next

The data collected from the VANGARD study will directly inform the design and operation of future advanced air mobility aircraft, helping to engineer quieter vehicles and establish flight paths and operational procedures that minimize noise impact.

The takeaway

Understanding the public's perception of air taxi noise is crucial for the successful integration of these new transportation options into urban environments. By collaborating with researchers, manufacturers, and city planners, the industry can develop solutions that balance technological innovation with community needs and concerns.