An IATA report highlights the complexity of contrail science, noting gaps in understanding how contrails form, persist, and impact climate.
Content Body
A report from the International Air Transportation Association (IATA) describes how contrails contribute to global warming and recommends solutions that industry can use to minimize their effects. The report highlights the complexity of contrail science, noting gaps in understanding how contrails form, persist, and impact climate.
“The lack of high-resolution, real-time data on atmospheric conditions (particularly humidity and temperature at cruising altitudes) hinders precise contrail forecasting,” said the report. “Recent collaborations among meteorologists, climate researchers, airlines, and aircraft manufacturers have yielded new insights but underscored the need for enhanced data collection and air traffic network contributions.”
According to the study, “trials with modified flight paths and alternative fuels have shown potential yet limited efficacy due to the variability of atmospheric conditions and the localized nature of where contrails do occur.” Although current sensor technology on commercial aircraft lack the required sensitivity and response time, “ongoing research aims to develop more accurate and robust solutions.”
The report divided recommendations into three time phases. In the immediate term (2024-2030), prioritizing the reduction of CO2 emissions should take precedence over uncertainties in contrail detection and climate impact. Mid-term actions (2030-2040) should involve establishing standards for data transmission; continuous validation of models; and encouraging aircraft manufacturers to include provisions for meteorological observations and their climate effect.
Long-term actions (2040-2050) should focus on increasing the world fleet providing data and having a full understanding of the non-CO2 effects of alternative fuels. These action items collectively aim to mitigate the climate impact of aviation while advancing scientific understanding and technological capabilities.
Report Urges Action to Reduce Contrail Warming Effects
Newsletter Body
A report from the International Air Transportation Association (IATA) describes how contrails contribute to global warming and recommends solutions that industry can use to minimize their effects. The report highlights the complexity of contrail science, noting gaps in understanding how contrails form, persist, and impact climate.
“The lack of high-resolution, real-time data on atmospheric conditions (particularly humidity and temperature at cruising altitudes) hinders precise contrail forecasting,” said the report. “Recent collaborations among meteorologists, climate researchers, airlines, and aircraft manufacturers have yielded new insights but underscored the need for enhanced data collection and air traffic network contributions.”
According to the study, “trials with modified flight paths and alternative fuels have shown potential yet limited efficacy due to the variability of atmospheric conditions and the localized nature of where contrails do occur.”
The report divided recommendations into three time phases. In the immediate term (2024-2030), prioritizing the reduction of CO2 emissions should take precedence over uncertainties in contrail detection and climate impact. Mid-term actions (2030-2040) should involve establishing standards for data transmission; continuous validation of models; and encouraging aircraft manufacturers to include provisions for meteorological observations and their climate effect.
Long-term actions (2040-2050) should focus on increasing the world fleet providing data and having a full understanding of the non-CO2 effects of alternative fuels.