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Description
The rapid expansion of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in urban environments introduces a new and distinctive sound source that transforms our soundscapes. This paper explores the characteristics, propagation, and human impacts of UAV noise, and considers how urban planning and design can respond effectively. Compared with conventional urban sounds, UAV noise exhibits unique spectral and temporal features, including tonal components, broadband energy, and dynamic fluctuations linked to flight behaviour. Through a simulation-based case study in Shenzhen, the research shows that UAV noise distributes unevenly across space. Evidence from prior studies suggests that such noise is often perceived as more intrusive and annoying than traditional transportation sounds. Although emerging findings indicate physiological stress responses, results remain inconsistent and require further validation. To address these challenges, the paper advocates for integrating soundscape principles into UAV-related urban planning, with strategies such as optimizing flight paths, increasing operational altitude, adjusting speed profiles, and leveraging existing urban noise for masking.