White trails are sometimes seen in the wake of aircraft. In some cases, these can turn into cirrus clouds which, depending on their persistence in the atmosphere, can alter the planet’s radiation balance and possibly contribute to global warming.
While certain local humidity and temperature conditions are required for the formation of these trails, the propulsion system and fuel directly impact their characteristics and their ability to evolve into cirrus clouds.
Recording of the afternoon conference (in french) on June 13, 2024 with :
- Engine emissions: the impact of new fuels
by Michel DESAULTY, former Chief Engineer at SAFRAN Aircraft Engines, AAE member - Aircraft contrails: what impact on the climate?
by Daniel CARIOLLE, former Director of Research at Météo-France, AAE member
