I have long enjoyed knowing and explaining that aviation contributes only a small portion—roughly 2%—of air pollution. Aviation Week & Space Technology (AW&ST) has caused me to rethink my position.
AW&ST points out that airlines are growing rapidly as more people choose to fly, and aviation air pollution will grow likewise. Also, as countries fight to lower air pollution by preset dates, the pressure to control aviation pollution will mount.
At the same time, aviation seems to be moving toward more efficient engines, perhaps more electric engines, and more solar power. Will this efficiency improve fast enough? I dunno, but certainly hope so.
Change of subject…
To my surprise, it has been suggested that Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Airport (ATL) be turned over to a state-created airport authority.
My experiences with ATL go back more than a half-century, flying myself in and out and—much more frequently—flying through on airlines. I’ve spent more than a few nights in the airport, trapped there by snow, ice, and poor planning. It always seemed like a fine airport to me. Are they really going to turn it over to the state?
Oddly enough, two other important USA airports are reportedly being considered for new management and/or control.
What’s going on here? I certainly don’t know.
