Google and Cathay Pacific Test Contrail-Avoidance Tech on Long-Haul Flights

Google announced on September 7 that it is working with Cathay Pacific to test aircraft contrail-avoidance technology on ultra-long-haul flights. Early trials have covered more than 80 flights, and the companies said routing aircraft around contrail-prone areas could reduce the climate impact of contrail-related greenhouse gas emissions by about 40%, according to Jiemian News. Google said its system combines AI forecasting models, satellite imagery and advanced weather intelligence to identify contrail formation zones in advance, allowing dispatchers and pilots to make small altitude adjustments around those areas. Cathay Pacific said it uses onboard Wi-Fi and its in-house electronic flight bag to send dynamic forecasts directly to the cockpit so pilots can access the information in real time alongside routine operating metrics. The companies said they will expand the scope of the trials.