Virtual Reality for Assessing Willingness to Accept Compensation: An Exploratory Study of New Airport Noise Impact in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Abstract

Assessing the willingness to accept compensation (WTA) for aircraft noise is essential for airport development; nevertheless, traditional contingent valuation techniques (CVM) may be insufficient. This study examines virtual reality (VR) as a possibly more effective instrument for generating willingness to accept (WTA) in Thailand. Comparative research (n=140) conducted near a potential Chiang Mai airport classified participants into VR and non-VR groups based on a questionnaire. The VR group encountered three simulated auditory levels. Mann-Whitney U tests indicated significantly elevated WTA values in the VR group overall (p < 0.001) and at all noise levels (p < 0.001), particularly at medium noise levels. Socioeconomic inequalities were also noted. Constraints encompass the utilization of a non-parametric test and a particular VR system. Subsequent studies must utilize more rigorous statistical techniques, varied VR settings, and comprehensive effect evaluations to validate these results and guide fair noise reduction measures.