Summary Modern planes create longer-lasting contrails, potentially causing more global warming than previously thought. Soot particles at high altitudes freeze, seeding ice particles that extend contrail life and warming effects. Increased research can help airlines reduce contrail pollution, possibly by developing specific flight routes.
Whether an aviation geek or not, most people have seen contrails high in the sky. These vapor or ice clouds, also known as condensation trails, are created by the exhaust from an aircraft’s engine as it soars 30,000 to 40,000 feet above the ground. As contrails paint the sky every day from planes traveling from A to B, researchers have noticed a difference in the longevity of the exhaust trails and how it relates to global warming.
It comes as the International Air Transport Association (IATA) called for increased research on contrails earlier this year. More than previously thought According to New Scientist , studies have shown that modern commercial aircraft and private jets that can fly at high altitudes develop longer-lasting contrails, which are likely to cause more global warming . These new planes, such as the Boeing 787 Dreamliner and Airbus A350 , are known for their increased fuel efficiency compared to aircraft of the previous generation.
However, as they can reach cruising altitudes of up to 41,000 feet on long-haul flights, research shows that these planes could be linked to global warming more than previously thought. Jet en.