Our economy benefits greatly from the ability to move people and products all over the globe, quickly and safely, thanks to aviation. However, it produces serious environmental impacts — primarily noise and atmospheric emissions. Jet engines produce CO2, NOx, CO, SOx, VOCs, particulates and other trace compounds — most of which are considered local air quality pollutants and/or greenhouse gases, which contribute to climate change.

 

There are many varied regulations constraining aviation emissions. New technologies, advanced materials and enhanced design have improved aircraft energy intensity and reduced fuel consumption tremendously over time. In addition to the aircraft themselves, most commercial airlines, as well as the U.S. Air Force, have enacted major policies addressing the reduction of their environmental impact. (Source: FAA / Photo: Flickr)