**GAO-03-252**                      Published: Feb 28, 2003. Publicly Released: Mar 07, 2003.                  

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## Highlights

Although noise has long been a problem around airports, the anticipated growth in demand for air travel has also raised questions about the effect of airport operations on air quality. Aviation-related emissions of nitrogen oxides, which contribute to the formation of ozone, have been of particular concern to many airport operators. A federal study at 19 airports estimated that, by 2010, aircraft emissions have the potential to significantly contribute to air pollution in the areas around these airports. GAO agreed to review efforts in the United States and other countries to reduce emissions at airports and the effect of improvements in aircraft and engine design on emissions.

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## Topics

Natural Resources and Environment

Air pollutionAir pollution controlAir qualityAircraft enginesAviation fuelsEnvironmental monitoringOzoneAirportsAircraft acquisition programAviation