If some time ago in the blog We were talking about how, as a consequence of global warming, air travel could be much more turbulent than normal, a new study published in the journal Climatic Change reveals that in the coming decades it will be more difficult to take off.
And it is that, if you want to do it, will have to go with less weight; otherwise the flight will have to be delayed or canceled. Why?
As the air warms, it expands and its density decreases. Because it is lighter, the wings generate less lift as an airplane races along the runway. Thus, depending primarily on the aircraft model and the length of the runway itself, between 10 and 30% of loaded planes will not be able to take off if the temperature is too high.
Lead study author Ethan Coffel, PhD, from the University of California, said, "Our results suggest that weight restriction may impose a non-trivial cost on airlines and an impact on aviation operations all over the world".
The global average temperature could rise up to 3 degrees Celsius by the year 2100, But meanwhile, heat waves will become more frequent, with maximum temperatures 4 to 8 degrees higher than usual starting in 2080. These heat waves are the ones that will cause the most problems in an increasingly connected world.
Thus, if greenhouse gas emissions are not reduced, fuel capacity and payload weights will need to be reduced by up to 4% on hotter days on some aircraft. If they are reduced to a minimum, and soon, only a 0,5% weight reduction will be necessary, according to the study.
La relationship between aviation and climate change It's a two-way street: while aviation contributes to climate change through its emissions, climate change, in turn, affects aviation operations and safety. Therefore, it's crucial for the aviation industry to take measures to reduce its environmental impact and adapt to the challenges posed by climate change. This includes developing sustainable technologies, using alternative aviation fuels, and improving airline operations. Airlines are beginning to optimize flight routes to reduce flight distance and time, improve air traffic efficiency, and adopt flight procedures that minimize fuel consumption. You can also learn more about this topic in our article on the impact of the aircraft on the environment.
Furthermore, it is important to mention that climate change is also affecting air safety through the increase in extreme weather events, which increase the risks to flights. In this regard, International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) have initiated studies and efforts to anticipate and mitigate these risks.
A report published by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) explains that every increase in the average air temperature at the planet's surface amplifies the effects of severe weather events, such as storms, hurricanes, heat waves, intense rainfall, floods, and droughts. This has direct implications for flight operations, airworthiness, and airport safety.
- Increased weight restrictions on flights due to higher temperatures.
- Increase in the frequency and intensity of meteorological phenomena that affect flight safety.
- Change in wind patterns affecting air routes and fuel consumption.
Research also indicates that rising temperatures at high-altitude airports or on hot days can lead to flight cancellations or rescheduling. Airlines must be prepared to adjust their operations based on changing weather conditions.
Rising sea levels pose another significant threat to aviation, especially coastal airports. Flooding caused by storm surges, storms, and rising sea levels threaten access and operations at airports in cities located in vulnerable areas. Effective planning for new airports in these regions requires hydrological, climatological, and technical expertise.
Climate change is leading airlines to consider new strategies to adapt their operations. For example, NASA and other research organizations are working on advanced technologies that will allow for more accurate prediction of turbulence and other atmospheric phenomena. This includes the development of advanced weather monitoring systems to improve turbulence prediction and minimize its impact on flights.
It is vital that the airline industry implement sustainable practices and continue to research and adapt to changing climate conditions. This will not only improve the industry's resilience but also contribute to the fight against climate change, ensuring the safety of its operations and customer satisfaction.
The aviation industry can also benefit from international collaboration to share best practices and technologies in reducing emissions and adapting to a changing climate. Airlines can, for example, work together with governments and non-governmental organizations to foster a regulatory framework that supports innovation and sustainability.
Airlines are investing in sustainable fuels and carbon offset strategies to mitigate aviation's environmental impact. However, these solutions are still in the development phase and large-scale implementation could take years. As the impact of climate change on aviation becomes more evident, it is essential that industry players consider developing sustainable technologies to ensure the future of air travel.
As we continue to face a warming world, the challenges for aviation will continue to evolve. The key will be adaptation and innovation to make flying as safe and efficient as possible in an ever-changing climate. The industry must work to reduce its carbon footprint while adapting to the new weather patterns emerging due to climate change, ensuring the viability of aviation for future generations.
It is essential that not only airlines and aircraft manufacturers take action to address these challenges, but that consumers also become aware of the environmental footprint of air travel and support initiatives that seek to reduce it. In this context, raising awareness about how climate change affects different areas, including aviation, is essential to generating significant change in the way we travel.
Aviation, like any other sector, needs to evolve and adapt. The climate crisis we face demands swift and effective responses, and the aviation industry must be part of the long-term solution, embracing its role and responsibilities in protecting the environment and ensuring sustainable and safe air transport for the future.
