Contrail management : from basics to application

Abstract

Purpose – To show how warming persistent contrails can be predicted based on only a few physical parameters. Show the application. Present a simple equation to predict the global effect of Aviation Induced Cloudiness (AIC) considering fuel burn.

Findings – Contrail formation depends (among other parameters) on the overall efficiency of the aircraft. This efficiency does not depend on aircraft drag, but on Specific Fuel Consumption (SFC), c = c_a*V+c_b and as such on aircraft speed, V. For aircraft flying overhead, contrail persistence can be predicted. Various flight planning tools exist that help to avoid warming contrails. Global AIC is proportional to aircraft fuel burn with respect to average global aircraft fuel burn. Passengers should seek a flight with the lowest fuel burn per passenger. This not only to reduce CO2, but also to avoid contrails.

Social Implications – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) lobbies against contrail management. This presentation provides arguments, why contrail management is simple, science based, necessary and ready to be applied.