Residents flee noise from Denmark’s new F-35 fighter jets near Skrydstrup airbase

Svend Bækkel has recently moved into his new home, which he describes as a great deal at 900,000 kroner. He expresses his happiness, stating he has everything he dreamed of—a large garden, a nice view of the fields, and a well-maintained house. While Bækkel has settled in, many residents in the area have chosen to leave, fleeing the noise from Denmark’s new F-35 fighter jets, which are loud during takeoff and landing, exceeding recommended noise levels.

Bækkel’s property is located in a designated noise zone. Over the past four years, residents here have been able to sell their homes to the government to escape the noise, a provision that has seen 56 out of 121 households near Skrydstrup airbase take advantage. While some homes have been demolished, others are being resold by the state-owned company managed by Freja Ejendomme.

Bækkel, however, is unfazed by the noise thus far, noting that it is manageable with closed doors. Having lived near an airport and train tracks, he has grown accustomed to such disturbances and points out that the jets only create noise for brief periods. Since 2021, the first for-sale signs appeared in the noise zone, and those working to resell the properties report an unexpectedly easy time finding buyers.

His attraction to his new home stemmed from several factors, including a spacious carport, a beautiful view, and an affordable price at which he felt financially comfortable. Bækkel is also relieved that he will soon pay off his mortgage, allowing him to enjoy living in the tranquil countryside, despite the noise from the fighter jets. He finds joy in the rural setting, keen to relish the serenity while spotting wildlife like deer outside his windows.