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Interim results confirm forecasts – further measurements until 2026
As the city of Darmstadt reports, initial interim results regarding the monitoring of the rerouted departure path "Cindy S" were presented at a meeting of the Airport and Region Forum. The study examined, among other things, compliance with the nominal flight path, flight altitudes, direct clearances, and initial aircraft noise measurements. The results were compared with corresponding periods prior to the route rerouting.
Interim results of the monitoring
According to preliminary analyses, flight paths and altitudes largely correspond to the predicted expectations. A slight increase in altitudes was observed compared to the previous route. The flight corridor in the area between Wixhausen and Erzhausen is being adhered to well so far, except during severe weather.
The systematic deviation of aircraft to the south, observed during the trial operation at the turn of the year 2020/2021, has also decreased. On average, current flight paths are approximately 150 meters further north.
Aircraft noise measurements in Egelsbach, Erzhausen and Gräfenhausen
Initial aircraft noise assessments for September 2025 were conducted at temporary measuring stations operated by the Environmental and Community Center in Egelsbach and Erzhausen, as well as at a measuring station operated by Fraport AG in Gräfenhausen.
As previously calculated, an increase in noise levels was observed in Egelsbach and Erzhausen. In contrast, significantly lower average maximum noise levels were measured in Gräfenhausen.
Comparative measurements in Arheilgen and Wixhausen will start in January 2026 and will run for three months.
Own evaluations by the science city of Darmstadt
The city's measuring stations are also providing initial indications: The anticipated reductions in noise levels are particularly measurable in Arheilgen.
City Councillor Michael Kolmer nevertheless emphasizes the need for a cautious assessment:
"Given the early stage of the aircraft noise measurements, it is advisable to avoid premature conclusions. Nevertheless, our own evaluations also show that the reduction in noise levels described to us by many residents is verifiable through measurement."
A broad database is needed.
Kolmer points out that the results of further temporary measurements must now be awaited to create a solid basis for deliberations in the flight noise commission. The aim is to objectively assess the overall impact of the relocation and to utilize potential areas for improvement.
Particular focus must be placed on the peak noise levels occurring at night along the Cindy S departure route. Kolmer offers other affected municipalities and districts a joint approach.
outlook
Further monitoring results are expected to be presented in June 2026. The City of Darmstadt plans to inform the Wixhausen local council and residents in northern Darmstadt beforehand. Further information will be available at www.darmstadt.de .
