Munich Airport ultra-fine particulate matter levels reported high

Measurements conducted by the University of Bayreuth on behalf of the Bavarian Ministry of the Environment have revealed high levels of ultra-fine particulate matter (UFP) in the vicinity of Munich Airport. The findings, which were presented to the Hallbergmoos municipal council, indicate significant pollution in several communities located downwind of the airport.

The Freising Citizens' Association has expressed concern regarding the exposure of workers and children at local childcare facilities to these pollutants. The association is calling for immediate mitigation measures, including a transition to sulfur-free kerosene and the implementation of taxibots, which are specialized aircraft tugs designed to tow planes to the runway with engines turned off.

Munich Airport has expressed opposition to the use of taxibots, questioning their significant impact on climate protection and noting that engines require a warm-up period before takeoff. While the University of Bayreuth plans to move its monitoring station further east to Berglern, the citizens' association continues to advocate for direct measurements on airport grounds.