How climate change is having a turbulent impact on air travel
From sweltering cabins during boarding to long-term operational challenges, climate change is forcing a rethinking of nearly every aspect of air travel.
As global temperatures continue to break records and extreme weather events become more frequent, the aviation industry is facing a harsh reality: climate change is no longer a distant threat but a present-day challenge that's reshaping operations from the ground up.
The summer of 2023, the hottest on record according to NASA, offered a glimpse into the future of air travel. In Las Vegas, where temperatures soared to 115°F (46°C), passengers on a United flight bound for Atlanta found themselves in a cabin with temperatures exceeding 100°F (38°C). The incident, which resulted in medical emergencies and flight cancellation, is just one example of how extreme heat is testing the limits of current aviation infrastructure and practices.
While some aviation executives have previously sought to downplay the industry's role in global warming, often citing that it accounts for "only" 2% of global emissions (a misleading figure that does not take into account growth or non-CO2 emissions), the sector now finds itself vulnerable to the very phenomenon it has contributed to.
From sweltering cabins during boarding to long-term operational challenges, climate change is forcing a rethinking of nearly every aspect of air travel.
Here's an overview of what's in store as climate change reshapes the industry landscape:
Longer flight times: Altered wind patterns will extend flight durations, increasing fuel consumption and emissions.
Increased turbulence: More frequent and severe clear-air turbulence is becoming a serious safety concern. We've all seen high-profile incidents like the Singapore Airlines flight 321, which tragically saw a passenger die. Such severe incidents will become more likely as the planet warms.
Coastal airport flooding: According to Newcastle University, 269 airports are currently at risk, and if global warming exceeds 2°C, the number could rise to 572.
Reduced aircraft performance: Higher temperatures lead to less dense air, affecting lift and engine efficiency.
Rising operational costs: Adaptations to climate change effects will drive up insurance premiums and possibly require aircraft modifications.
Disrupted flight routes: Shifting weather patterns will force changes to established flight paths.
Infrastructure challenges: Longer runways may be needed to compensate for reduced lift in hotter conditions.
In other words: Profits down. Operating costs and challenges up.
Resiliency planning is needed
In light of these challenges, it's time for the industry to prioritise resiliency planning. We need to start mapping out what our operations might look like in the coming decades as the effects of climate change become more acute.
That should encompass a wide range of factors:
Investment in advanced weather prediction models and flexible routing systems.
Research into aircraft designs that can better withstand turbulence and operate efficiently in hotter conditions.
Comprehensive risk assessments for coastal airports and developing robust flood defence strategies.
Scenario planning for potential disruptions to global route networks due to climate-related events.
Most importantly: Exploration of alternative fuels and propulsion technologies to reduce our industry's carbon footprint. Net zero is no longer an option but a necessity.
For an industry built on the promise of seamlessly connecting the globe, climate change is proving to be its most formidable headwind yet.
As a result, we have a choice: view climate change as a long-term challenge to be dealt with by 2050 and carry on with business as usual, which will be anything but, or seize it as an opportunity for innovation and leadership.
This article is part of our Sustainable Aviation Technologies report. You can download a preview here.