Contrail minimization through altitude diversions: A feasibility study leveraging global data

Roosenbrand, E.J.; Sun, Junzi; Hoekstra, J.M.

doi:10.1016/j.trip.2023.100953

Contrail minimization through altitude diversions

Title

Contrail minimization through altitude diversions: A feasibility study leveraging global data

Author

Roosenbrand, E.J. (TU Delft Control & Simulation)
Sun, Junzi (TU Delft Control & Simulation)
Hoekstra, J.M. (TU Delft Control & Simulation)

Date

2023

Abstract

As global flight volume rises, the aviation industry is facing increasing climate challenges. One major factor is the impact of contrails, which trap outgoing terrestrial radiation and counteract emission reduction benefits from emission-optimized flight routes. Our study quantifies contrail-forming flights globally and assesses altitude adjustments necessary to avoid these regions. Using the Integrated Global Radiosonde Archive and global flight data from 2021-2022, we highlight several contrail-prone regions with high air traffic volumes and high potential for contrail-formation. We propose an operational strategy in altitude diversion, which can halve the amount of persistent contrails. Further, we analyse the additional carbon emissions caused by the altitude diversions and safety risks in terms of potential new conflicts. Our findings provide actionable strategies for policymakers to balance climate mitigation and operational challenges in aviation.

Subject

Aircraft surveillance data
Atmospheric science
Contrails
OpenSky
Remote sensing
Sustainability

To reference this document use:

http://resolver.tudelft.nl/uuid:9ea72dd0-f5bd-454e-8d40-3db386a148bd

DOI

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.trip.2023.100953

ISSN

2590-1982

Source

Transportation Research Interdisciplinary Perspectives, 22

Part of collection

Institutional Repository