When we think about aviation’s environmental impact, carbon dioxide (CO ₂ ) emissions often take center stage. However, another significant but less visible contributor to global warming is lurking in the skies:   contrails . These wispy, cloud-like trails left behind by aircraft have a surprisingly large effect on the Earth’s climate. As the aviation industry works to reduce its carbon footprint, addressing the impact of contrails is becoming an increasingly important part of the conversation. Let’s explore what contrails are, how they contribute to global warming, and what’s being done to mitigate their effects. This image captures a commercial jet leaving contrails at high altitude, showcasing how aircraft emissions contribute to climate change by forming artificial cirrus clouds. A key visual for discussions on sustainable aviation and contrail mitigation. What Are Contrails? Contrails, short for "condensation trails," are line-shaped clouds formed when water va...