Aircraft noise in Zepfenhan: calm returns to civil protests

Von Sophie Müller

Zepfenhan airfield recently experienced a decisive change: the legendary Pilatus PC6 Porter, which was an unbearable noise problem for many residents, is no longer used there. This marks an important step in a longer conflict between the residents and the airfield operator Kambis Ebrahimi, which caused great restlessness both in Schörzingen and Zepfenhan.

The pressure of the residents

In December 2023, around 400 people gathered in the Zepfenhan gymnastics and festival hall to obtain information about the airfield and to express their symptoms about the increasing aircraft noise. Among the participants were numerous citizens from Schömberg, Schörzingen and the surrounding communities. The resentment of the increased air traffic, especially through the Pilate, was clearly noticeable.

The effects on the community

The PK6 is a single-engine machine that was produced in Switzerland between 1959 and 2019 and achieved cult status in this country. However, their characteristic noises were considerable for the residents. Residents reported a subjective impression that aircraft noise, especially on sunny Sundays, had increased. The background noise was often so annoying that it was difficult for many to spend relaxing days outdoors.

Official statements and reports

The Stuttgart regional council previously found in an expert opinion that around 2,600 flights from Zepfenhan airfield were carried out in 2023; However, not every flight from Pilatus was.

Robert Hamm, head of unit for aviation and air safety, explained that flight operations took place as part of the applicable permits. The report showed that the permanent sound level was in the adjacent residential areas below the permissible limit values. Nevertheless, many residents remained disappointed because their individual sense of noise was often perceived as stressful.

Solutions in sight

Ines Gaehn, the mayor of Rottweil, said: "Since the beginning of the 2023 flight season, we have been active in conversation with everyone involved to find solutions." She emphasized that the city administration has no direct responsibility for the permits and that regular discussions with Ebrahimi, the regional council, the parachutists and the local council took place. The local council also strives for a contract that secures a regular flight operations.

A positive ending for the residents

Although the Pilatus PC6 is no longer started in Zepfenhan and actually a return to a quieter everyday life remains possible, it remains to be seen how the situation will develop in the long term. A resident summed it up: "You can go back to the garden without this uncomfortable hum in the sky." The situation shows how important the voice of the community is and how administration and citizens can search for solutions together.

- Nag