Google Tests AI to Reduce Aircraft Contrails, Cutting Warming Impact by 40%

Google said it successfully tested an AI system in real flights to guide aircraft around areas where heat-trapping contrails were likely to form. The trial reduced the warming impact attributed to contrails by 40%, while routes were chosen with fuel use and operating efficiency in mind. Because contrails form under particular atmospheric conditions and can retain heat, the result indicates a possible way to reduce aviation’s climate impact using existing aircraft and operational changes.