How airport worldwide struggle with air pollution
- Paul Aage Hegvik
- Feb 8
- 3 min read
Updated: Mar 19
Bangkok is facing a growing air pollution crisis that is now affecting aviation, tourism, and public health.
Recent reports highlight how the city's notorious smog, caused by traffic, industry, and seasonal crop burning, is disrupting operations at Suvarnabhumi Airport. Poor visibility and health concerns have led to travel disruptions, adding to the ongoing air quality issues in Thailand’s capital.
Ordered a crackdown
Former Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha initiated measures to combat air pollution in Bangkok and its surrounding areas. In a recent directive, he ordered a crackdown on sources of air pollution, emphasizing the need for stricter enforcement of environmental regulations. While this directive does not mention the airport specifically, it reflects the government's broader commitment to addressing air quality issues in the region.
Not unique
This situation in Bangkok is not unique. Airports worldwide are grappling with significant air pollution challenges, impacting both environmental and public health. Emissions from aircraft operations contribute to respiratory and cardiovascular ailments among workers and nearby residents. Studies have linked aviation emissions to approximately 58,000 premature deaths annually.
Efforts to mitigate these impacts include optimizing aircraft operations to reduce fuel combustion during takeoff and landing, thereby decreasing pollution levels.
Additionally, some airports are exploring expansions with considerations for environmental impacts. For instance, London's Heathrow Airport has proposed a third runway, with discussions around its potential effects on air quality and carbon emissions.
Balancing the need for airport expansion to support economic growth with the imperative to reduce air pollution remains a complex issue. Innovations in aviation technology, such as sustainable fuels and electric aircraft, offer potential pathways to address these challenges.
This is some airports that have problems with pollution:
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), USA
One of California’s largest pollution sources, contributing to LA's notorious smog.
Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi, India
Severely impacted by hazardous air pollution levels, often leading to flight cancellations.
Heathrow Airport, London, United Kingdom
A major air pollution hotspot with excessive nitrogen dioxide (NO2) levels.
Beijing Capital International Airport, China
Frequent disruptions due to smog, despite government efforts to reduce emissions.
Shanghai Pudong International Airport, China
High levels of particulate matter (PM2.5) contribute to China’s air pollution crisis.
Mexico City International Airport, Mexico
Elevated pollution levels caused by urban congestion and aircraft emissions.
São Paulo/Guarulhos International Airport, Brazil
Impacted by industrial pollution and vehicle emissions worsening air quality.
Charles de Gaulle Airport, Paris, France
Contributes to France’s air pollution concerns with aircraft and ground emissions.
The health and environmental impact
The pollution generated by airports includes fine particulate matter (PM2.5), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and NOx, all of which contribute to respiratory diseases, cardiovascular conditions, and even birth complications. A study near LAX found that women living under flight paths had an increased risk of preterm birth, highlighting the severe health consequences of airport-related pollution.
Solutions and mitigation efforts
Governments and aviation authorities are implementing strategies to combat smog issues linked to airports:
Electrification of ground equipment: Replacing diesel-powered vehicles with electric ones reduces airport-related emissions.
Sustainable aviation fuels (SAF): Airlines are increasingly investing in cleaner fuel alternatives to lower their carbon footprint.
Operational improvements: Shorter taxi times, optimized flight paths, and newer aircraft with lower emissions can significantly cut pollution levels.
Air quality regulations: Stricter policies on vehicle emissions around airports and limits on aircraft pollution are being introduced in many countries.
Facts about Suvarnabhumi Airport
Location: Bangkok, Thailand
IATA Code: BKK
ICAO Code: VTBS
Opened: September 28, 2006
Size: 3,240 hectares (8,000 acres)
Passenger Capacity: Over 60 million annually
Runways: 2 (Third runway under construction)
Airlines: Hub for Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways, Thai Vietjet Air
Facilities: Largest passenger terminal in a single building, extensive duty-free shopping
Environmental Issues: Impacted by smog and air pollution, affecting visibility and health
Expansion Plans: Ongoing projects to increase capacity to 120 million passengers per year
