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Airlines cancel flights after volcanic eruptions. An aviation expert explains why that’s a good thing

<a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/patrick-murray-2027113">Patrick Murray</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-southern-queensland-1069">University of Southern Queensland</a> At least three airlines <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-11-13/flights-to-and-from-bali-cancelled-due-to-volcanic-ash/104593698">cancelled flights between Australia and Bali</a> this week after a volcano eruption in eastern Indonesia spewed a vast plume of volcanic ash into the air. But while would-be holiday makers are naturally <a href="https://7news.com.au/sunrise/volcanic-eruption-in-indonesia-forces-airlines-to-cancel-flights-to-bali-stranding-frustrated-passengers-c-16732486">upset</a> at having their plans disrupted, it’s worth remembering it’s not safe to fly planes through volcanic ash. So, how do airlines decide it’s not safe to fly when a volcano erupts? And why is volcanic ash so dangerous for aircraft, anyway? <h2>What does volcanic ash do to a plane?</h2> Volcanic ash particles are very, very abrasive. They can cause permanent damage to windscreens in the aircraft and can even make windscreens look opaque – like someone has gone over them with sandpaper. Imagine getting spectacles and scraping them over and over with sandpaper – that’s what you’d see if you were sitting in the cockpit. Volcanic ash can also clog or damage external sensors, leading to erroneous readings, and can infiltrate an aircraft’s ventilation system. This can affect cabin air quality and lead to potential respiratory issues. But the main issue, in fact, is the impact volcanic ash has on engines. A jet engine works by drawing in air, compressing it, mixing it with fuel and igniting it. This creates high-pressure exhaust gases that are expelled backward, which pushes the engine (and the aircraft) forward. The correct balance of fuel and airflow is crucial. When you disrupt airflow, it can cause the engine to stall. Ash particles that get inside the engines will melt and build up, causing disruption of the airflow. This could cause the engine to “flame out” or stall. Volcanic ash has a lot of silica in it, so when it melts it turns into something similar to glass. It won’t melt unless exposed to very high temperatures – but inside a jet engine, you do get very high temperatures. There was a famous incident in 1982 where a <a href="https://theaviationgeekclub.com/the-story-of-british-airways-flight-9-the-boeing-747-that-lost-all-four-engines-due-to-volcanic-ash-yet-it-landed-safely/">British Airways Boeing 747 plane</a> was flying in the vicinity of Indonesia and lost all four engines after it encountered volcanic ash spewing from Java’s Mount Galunggung. Fortunately, the pilot was able to <a href="https://simpleflying.com/gallunggung-glider-the-story-of-british-airways-flight-9/">restart the engines and land safely</a>, although the pilots were unable to see through the front windscreens. <h2>How do airlines decide it’s not safe to fly when a volcano erupts?</h2> The decision is made by each airline’s operational staff. Each airline’s operational team would be looking at the situation in real time today and making the decision based on their risk assessment. Every airline has a process of risk management, which is required by Australia’s Civil Aviation Safety Authority. Different airlines may tackle risk management in slightly different ways; you might have some cancelling flights earlier than others. But, in broad terms, the more sophisticated airlines would come to similar conclusions and they are likely all communicating with each other. Mostly, they make the call based on the extent of the plume – how big the cloud of ash is and where it’s going, bearing in mind that winds vary with altitude. As you get stronger winds with altitude, the ash can drift quite far from the source. There is also a United Nations agency called the <a href="https://www.icao.int/Pages/default.aspx">International Civil Aviation Organization</a>, which issues guidance on volcanic ash hazards. Various meteorological agencies around the world work together and liaise with aviation authorities to spread the word quickly if there is an eruption. For airlines to resume flights, the ash needs to clear and there needs to be a low probability of further eruptions. <h2>Passenger safety is the priority</h2> The underpinning reason behind these flight cancellations is safety. If you lose engines and you can’t see out the window, the risk to passenger safety is obvious. Naturally, people are upset about their holiday plans being held up. But it’s actually in passengers’ best interests to not fly through volcanic ash.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/243576/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/patrick-murray-2027113">Patrick Murray</a>, Emeritus Professor of Aviation, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-southern-queensland-1069">University of Southern Queensland</a> Image credits: Shutterstock This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/airlines-cancel-flights-after-volcanic-eruptions-an-aviation-expert-explains-why-thats-a-good-thing-243576">original article</a>.

Travel Trouble

Which seat on a plane is the safest? We asked an aviation expert

When booking a flight, do you ever think about which seat will protect you the most in an emergency? Probably not. Most people book seats for comfort, such as leg room, or convenience, such as easy access to toilets. Frequent flyers (this author included) might book their seat as close as possible to the front so they can disembark more quickly. We rarely book a flight with hopes of getting one of the middle seats in the last row. Well, guess what? These seats are statistically <a href="https://time.com/3934663/safest-seat-airplane/">the safest ones on an airplane</a>. <h2>Air travel is safe</h2> Before we get into it, I should reiterate that air travel is the <a href="https://www.sbs.com.au/news/article/how-safe-is-flying-heres-what-the-statistics-say/knzczab06">safest mode of transport</a>. In 2019, there were just under <a href="https://www.flightradar24.com/blog/flightradar24s-2019-by-the-numbers/">70 million</a>flights globally, with only <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/michaelgoldstein/2020/01/02/aviation-safety-in-2019-fewer-deaths-but-more-fatal-accidents/?sh=58d372f74ceb">287 fatalities</a>. According to the US National Safety Council’s analysis of census data, the odds of <a href="https://time.com/3934663/safest-seat-airplane/">dying in a plane</a> are about 1 in 205,552, compared with 1 in 102 in a car. Even so, we pay little attention to fatal road accidents, but when we hear about an <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/jan/15/nepal-plane-crash-with-72-onboard-leaves-at-least-16-dead">ATR72 crashing in Nepal</a> it’s the lead story on every news page. Our interest in plane crashes might lie in wanting to understand why they happen, or what the odds are of them happening again. And perhaps it’s not a bad thing; our concern ensures these tragic incidents are <a href="https://apnews.com/article/plane-crashes-nepal-singapore-kathmandu-accidents-3b26342109872610d922f515fe94455b">thoroughly investigated</a>, which helps keep air travel safe. Frankly speaking, there is no real need to worry about safety when you board a commercial flight. But if you’ve still got that nagging question in your head, driven by sheer curiosity, read on. <h2>In the middle, at the back</h2> It’s worth remembering accidents by their very nature do not conform to standards. In the 1989 <a href="https://www.britannica.com/event/United-Airlines-Flight-232">United Flight 232</a> crash in Sioux City, Iowa, 184 of the 269 people onboard survived the accident. Most of the survivors were sitting behind first class, towards the front of the plane. Nonetheless, a <a href="https://time.com/3934663/safest-seat-airplane/">TIME investigation</a> that looked at 35 years of aircraft accident data found the middle rear seats of an aircraft had the lowest fatality rate: 28%, compared with 44% for the middle aisle seats. This logically makes sense too. Sitting next to an exit row will always provide you with the fastest exit in the case of an emergency, granted there’s no fire on that side. But the wings of a plane store fuel, so this disqualifies the middle exit rows <a href="https://www.rd.com/list/flight-safety/">as the safest row option</a>. At the same time, being closer to the front means you’ll be impacted before those in the back, which leaves us with the last exit row. As for why the middle seats are safer than the window or aisle seats, that is, as you might expect, because of the buffer provided by having people on either side. <h2>Some emergencies are worse than others</h2> The type of emergency will also dictate survivability. Running into a mountain will decrease chances of survival exponentially, as was the case in a tragic 1979 disaster in New Zealand. Air New Zealand Flight TE901 crashed into the slopes of Mt Erebus <a href="https://nzhistory.govt.nz/culture/erebus-disaster">in Antarctica</a>, killing 257 passengers and crew. Landing in the ocean nose-first also decreases chances of survival, as witnessed with the 2009 <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/oct/10/air-france-flight-af477-2009-crash-trial-airbus">Air France Flight 447</a>, in which 228 passengers and crew perished. Pilots are trained to minimise potential risk in an emergency event as best as they can. They will try to avoid hitting mountains and look for a level place, such as an open field, to land as normally as possible. The technique for <a href="https://www.aviationsafetymagazine.com/features/the-myths-of-ditching/">landing in water</a> requires assessing the surface conditions and attempting to land between waves at a normal landing angle. Aircraft are designed to be very robust in emergency situations. In fact, the main reason the cabin crew remind us to keep our seat belts fastened is not because of crash risk, but because of “<a href="https://www.skybrary.aero/articles/clear-air-turbulence-cat">clear air turbulence</a>” that can be experienced at any time at high altitudes. It is this weather phenomenon that can cause the most damage to <a href="https://www.usnews.com/news/us/articles/2022-12-20/turbulence-persists-as-a-major-cause-of-injuries-on-flights">passengers and aircraft</a>. Manufacturers are designing new planes with more composite materials capable of handing in-flight stress. In these designs, the wings are not rigid and can flex to absorb <a href="https://www.wired.com/2010/03/boeing-787-passes-incredible-wing-flex-test/">extreme loading</a> to prevent structural failure. <h2>Does the type of plane make a difference?</h2> Granted, there are certain variables, such as impact from airspeed, that can vary slightly between different airplane types. However, the <a href="https://www.grc.nasa.gov/www/k-12/UEET/StudentSite/dynamicsofflight.html">physics of flight</a> is more or less the same in all planes. Generally, larger planes will have more structural material and therefore more strength to withstand pressurisation at altitude. This means they may provide some additional protection in an emergency – but this, again, is highly dependent on the severity of the emergency. That’s not to say you should book your next flight on the largest plane you can find. As I’ve mentioned, air travel remains very safe. So I’d suggest thinking about what movie you’ll watch instead, and hoping they don’t run out of chicken and only have the <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2018/11/19/6-airplane-foods-you-should-avoid-according-to-food-safety-experts.html">shrimp</a> left! Image credits: Getty Images This article originally appeared on <a href="https://theconversation.com/which-seat-on-a-plane-is-the-safest-we-asked-an-aviation-expert-198672" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Conversation</a>.

Travel Tips

Debate rages over "most reclined seat in the history of aviation"

Frustrated travellers have called out a passenger for reclining his seat all the way on a short flight. The Pointer Brothers shared a video to TikTok saying it’s the “easiest red card of all time” when someone reclines their seat when there’s not enough room to begin with. “5 hour flight home…is this the most reclined seat in the history of aviation,” their caption read. The video shows one of the brothers annoyed at being squished in his seat because of the person in front of him being reclined. At one point he moves really close to the passenger's head to show his frustration. <div><iframe title="tiktok embed" src="https://cdn.embedly.com/widgets/media.html?src=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tiktok.com%2Fembed%2Fv2%2F7156382025732132142&display_name=tiktok&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tiktok.com%2F%40thepointerbrothers_%2Fvideo%2F7156382025732132142%3Fis_copy_url%3D1%26is_from_webapp%3Dv1%26lang%3Den&image=https%3A%2F%2Fp16-sign.tiktokcdn-us.com%2Fobj%2Ftos-useast5-p-0068-tx%2F0f73e1499904406bb843f4d28028f3d4_1666225042%3Fx-expires%3D1667966400%26x-signature%3DK1evkklXcSTqSnlVDK5VeUqWwl4%253D&key=59e3ae3acaa649a5a98672932445e203&type=text%2Fhtml&schema=tiktok" width="340" height="700" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></div> Viewers said the brothers have a point in calling the issue out as planes are already cramped enough. “Those seats should just not recline, it’s cramped enough and I already don’t have leg room,” someone wrote. “That's when passive-aggressive tray adjustments commence,” another commented. “I’m 6’3” and I have never reclined my seat. I can’t bring myself to push into others' space, the dang planes are small the way it is,” someone else pointed out. Others however said the brothers were in the wrong and everyone is entitled to recline their seat. “So many people in this comments section don't understand how legroom works... reclining your seat doesn't keep your knees from being smashed,” someone said. “Wah people are using the seats for what they're for. Want more room, get first class,” another wrote. Images: TikTok

Travel Trouble

Aviation expert's new theory on missing flight MH370

A noted aviation expert has said he has found the likely location of flight MH370. If he’s right it would solve the eight-year-old mystery of the whereabouts of the aircraft and its 239 passengers and crew, all of whom are presumed to have died. The findings have also reinforced a “horrifying” theory according to the senior officer in charge of the initial search of the missing plane’s final hours. Authorities are yet to be persuaded to tackle a new search mission. Malaysia Airlines flight MH370 disappeared on March the 8th, 2014 several hours after leaving Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia’s capital, bound for Beijing, China. The plane headed north-east towards China but not long after take off it abruptly changed direction in the Gulf of Thailand and headed back across the Malaysian peninsula. It then plotted a course south-west into the remote depths of the Indian Ocean. It’s thought to have crashed 2000 kilometres off the coast of Western Australia, the search for MH370 has covered 120,000 square kilometres. British aerospace engineer Richard Godfrey has conducted an examination of the anomalies in radio signals from that fateful night. He has said that’s enabled him to zero in on a new crash zone. “In my view there’s no reason why we shouldn’t be planning for a new search,” Mr Godfrey told Channel 9’s 60 Minutes on Sunday. The breakthrough discovery claim came after an analysis using Weak Signal Propagation Reporter (WSPR) technology – this is effectively an invisible radio wave similar to trip-wires that record anything disturbing or passing through the waves. However, experts have expressed serious doubts as to whether historical WSPR data can be used to track MH370. Mr Godfrey said 160 signals were disturbed over the Indian Ocean that night, disturbances likely caused by an aeroplane. Only one other aircraft was anywhere near MH370 over the ocean and Mr Godfrey said that plane was at least an hour away. That meant the disturbances were most likely caused by the Malaysian jet allowing its flight to be tracked as well as its probable final resting place. He has said he can narrow a search area down to just 300 square kilometres which could be looked at in just a few weeks. That includes some areas already searched and others that were never looked at during the initial rescue effort. “With this very difficult terrain it is possible to miss wreckage,” he said. “When you’re going through 120,000 square kilometres you get one chance, one pass of each point. With 300 square kilometres you can have several passes and from different angles, so it’s possible.” Findings put focus on pilot Mr Godfrey told 60 Minutes that his research has uncovered another aspect to the flight and its captain Zaharie Ahmad Shah. Far from heading in a straight line into the Indian Ocean, Mr Godfrey has claimed MH370 did a number of 360 degree turns over the sea – almost like holding patterns before an aircraft lands at a busy airport. That would mean the “ghost flight” theory – that the plane was on autopilot and the passengers and crew were incapacitated may not be accurate. “This is strange to me. When you’re in the remotest part of the Indian Ocean trying to lose an aircraft why would you enter a holding pattern for 20 minutes? “The captain may have been communicating with the Malaysian government, he may have been checking whether he was being followed, he may have simply wanted time to make up his mind,” said Mr Godfrey. If correct, the curious course of the Boeing 777 over the Indian Ocean gives credence to the theory that the captain deliberately flew the plane into oblivion. Peter Foley was the Australian Transport Safety Bureau’s (ATSB) director of operations for the MH370 search. Asked on the program by 60 Minutes’ reporter Sarah Abo if the most likely scenario was that the captain was behind a mass murder incident, Mr Foley said “Yes, by a wide margin. It’s horrifying”. But nonetheless, Mr Foley said some of Mr Godfrey’s conclusions needed more scrutiny. “There’s certainly merit in exploring new avenues. The ATSB described Mr Godfrey as “credible” but has not launched a new investigation. “The Australian Transport Safety Bureau has not had a formal involvement in any search for the missing aircraft MH370 since the conclusion of the first underwater search in 2017, has not recommenced a search for the aircraft, and notes that any decision to conduct further searches would be a matter for the Government of Malaysia,” ATSB Chief Commissioner Angus Mitchell said in a statement. “The ATSB does acknowledge that Mr Godfrey’s work recommends a search zone for MH370, a significant portion of which covers an area searched during the ATSB-led underwater search. “When the ATSB was made aware that Mr Godfrey’s zone incorporates an area of ocean surveyed during the ATSB-led search, out of due diligence the ATSB requested Geoscience Australia review the data it held from the search to re-validate that no items of interest were detected in that area.” “The ATSB expects that review to be finalised in coming weeks, the results from which will be made public on the ATSB’s website. “The ATSB remains an interested observer in all efforts to find the missing aircraft.” Mr Mitchell reiterated that any decision to conduct further searches for MH370 would be a matter for the Government of Malaysia. Image: news.com.au

Travel Trouble

Blue-sky thinking: net-zero aviation is more than a flight of fantasy

As international air travel rebounds after COVID-19 restrictions, greenhouse gas emissions from aviation are expected to rise dramatically – and with it, scrutiny of the industry’s environmental credentials. Aviation emissions have almost <a href="https://www.newscientist.com/article/2253626-aviations-contribution-to-global-warming-has-doubled-since-2000/">doubled since 2000</a> and in 2018 reached <a href="https://ourworldindata.org/co2-emissions-from-aviation">one billion tonnes</a>. Climate Action Tracker rates the industry’s climate performance as <a href="https://climateactiontracker.org/sectors/aviation/">critically insufficient</a>. As the climate change threat rapidly worsens, can aviation make the transition to a low-carbon future – and perhaps even reach net-zero emissions? The significant technological and energy disruption on the horizon for the industry suggests such a future is possible. But significant challenges remain. Achieving a net-zero aviation sector will require a huge collaborative effort from industry and government – and consumers can also play their part. <iframe width="440" height="260" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/nW6J989UBhA?wmode=transparent&start=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe> <h2>Build back better</h2> The aviation sector’s progress in cutting emissions has been disappointing to date. For example, in February last year, <a href="https://theconversation.com/major-airlines-say-theyre-acting-on-climate-change-our-research-reveals-how-little-theyve-achieved-127800">research</a> on the world’s largest 58 airlines found even the best-performing ones were not doing anywhere near enough to cut emissions. Most recently, at the COP26 climate change summit in Glasgow, the industry merely reasserted a commitment to a plan known as the <a href="https://www.icao.int/environmental-protection/CORSIA/Pages/default.aspx">Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation</a>. The scheme relies on carbon offsetting, which essentially pays another actor to reduce emissions on its behalf at lowest cost, and doesn’t lead to absolute emissions reduction in aviation. The scheme also encourages alternative cleaner fuels, but the level of emissions reduction between fuels varies considerably. Governments have generally failed to provide strong leadership to help the aviation sector to reduce emissions. This in part is because pollution from international aviation is not counted in the emissions ledger of any country, leaving little incentive for governments to act. Aviation is also a complex policy space to navigate, involving multiple actors around the world. However, COVID-19 has significantly jolted the aviation and travel sector, presenting an opportunity to build back better – and differently. Griffith University recently held a <a href="https://www.griffith.edu.au/institute-tourism/our-research/rethinking-aviation/aviation-reimagined-2021?fbclid=IwAR3Hd8xLJkEWMaHae8sho1MiSfV6TzbPbf30vo2fbJ0CHMg-xdvywNCmZbU">webinar series</a> on decarbonising aviation, involving industry, academic and government experts. The sessions explored the most promising policy and practical developments for net-zero aviation, as well as the most significant hurdles. <img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/437570/original/file-20211214-25-1rc1cnc.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" alt="passengers queue at airport" /> COVID-19 has significantly jolted the aviation sector. Steven Senne/AP <h2>Nations soaring ahead</h2> Some governments are leading the way in driving change in the aviation industry. For example, as a result of <a href="https://www.government.se/495f60/contentassets/883ae8e123bc4e42aa8d59296ebe0478/the-swedish-climate-policy-framework.pdf">government policy</a> to make Sweden climate-neutral by 2045, the Swedish aviation industry developed a <a href="https://fossilfrittsverige.se/en/roadmap/the-aviation-industry/#:%7E:text=The%20strategic%20objective%20for%202030,line%20with%20the%20Government%27s%20goals">roadmap</a> for fossil-free domestic flights by 2030, and for all flights originating from Sweden to be fossil-free by 2045. Achieving fossil-free flights requires replacing jet fuel with alternatives such as sustainable fuels or electric and hydrogen propulsion. The European Union plans to <a href="https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/qanda_21_3662">end current tax exemptions</a> for jet fuel and introduce measures to <a href="https://www.eurocontrol.int/article/eus-fit-55-package-what-does-it-mean-aviation">accelerate</a> the uptake of sustainable fuels. The United Kingdom is finalising its strategy for <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/achieving-net-zero-aviation-by-2050">net-zero aviation</a> by 2050 and a public body known as UK Research and Innovation is <a href="https://www.ukri.org/our-work/our-main-funds/industrial-strategy-challenge-fund/future-of-mobility/future-flight-challenge/">supporting</a> the development of new aviation technologies, including hybrid-electric regional aircraft. Australia lacks a strategic framework or emissions reduction targets to help transition the aviation industry. The <a href="https://www.infrastructure.gov.au/infrastructure-transport-vehicles/aviation/emerging-aviation-technologies/drones/eatp">Emerging Aviation Technology Program</a> seeks to reduce carbon emissions, among other goals. However, it appears to have a strong focus on freight-carrying drones and <a href="https://www.greenbiz.com/article/7-urban-air-mobility-companies-watch">urban air vehicles</a>, rather than fixed wing aircraft. <img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/437569/original/file-20211214-13-lsswi6.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" alt="plane taking off" /> Some governments are leading the way in driving change in the aviation industry. Zhao Xiaojun/AP <h2>Building tomorrow’s aircraft</h2> Low-emissions aircraft technology has developed substantially in the last five years. Advancements include electric and hybrid aircraft (powered by hydrogen or a battery) – such as that being developed by <a href="https://www.airbus.com/en/innovation/zero-emission/hydrogen/zeroe">Airbus</a>, <a href="https://www.rolls-royce.com/innovation/accel.aspx">Rolls Royce</a> and <a href="https://www.zeroavia.com/">Zero Avia</a> – as well as <a href="https://boeing.mediaroom.com/2021-07-14-Boeing-and-SkyNRG-Partner-to-Scale-Sustainable-Aviation-Fuels-Globally">sustainable aviation fuels</a>. Each of these technologies can reduce carbon emissions, but only battery and hydrogen electric options significantly reduce non-CO₂ climate impacts such as oxides of nitrogen (NOx), soot particles, oxidised sulphur species, and water vapour. For electric aircraft to be net-zero emissions, they must be powered by renewable energy sources. As well as being better for the planet, electric and hydrogen aircraft are likely to have <a href="https://www.zeroavia.com/">lower</a> energy and maintenance <a href="https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/electric-aviation-could-be-closer-than-you-think/">costs</a> than conventional aircraft. This decade, we expect a rapid emergence of electric and hybrid aircraft for short-haul, commuter, air taxi, helicopter and general flights. Increased use of sustainable aviation fuel is also likely. Although electric planes are flying, commercial operations are not expected until at least 2023 as the aircraft must undergo rigorous testing, safety and certification. <img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/437571/original/file-20211214-23-1clsep1.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" alt="A solar powered aircraft prototype flies in mountainous terrain" /> Electric planes exist, but the route to commercialisation is long. Pictured: a solar powered aircraft prototype flies near the France-Italy border. Laurent Gillieron/EPA <h2>Overcoming turbulence</h2> Despite real efforts by some industry leaders and governments towards making aviation a net-zero industry, significant strategic and practical challenges remain. Conversion to the commercial mainstream is not happening quickly enough. To help decarbonise aviation in Australia, industry and government should develop a clear strategy for emissions reduction with interim targets for 2030 and 2040. This would keep the industry competitive and on track for net-zero emissions by 2050. Strategic attention and action is also needed to: <ul> <li> advance aircraft and fuel innovation and development </li> <li> update regulatory and certification processes for new types of aircraft </li> <li> enhance production and deployment of new aviation fuels and technologies </li> <li> reduce fuel demand through efficiencies in route and air traffic management </li> <li> create “greener” airport operations and infrastructure </li> <li> build capability with pilots and aerospace engineers. </li> </ul> The emissions created by flights and itineraries can <a href="https://theicct.org/sites/default/files/publications/variation-aviation-emissions-itinerary-jul2021-1.pdf">vary substantially</a>. Consumers can do their part by opting for the lowest-impact option, and offsetting the emissions their flight creates via a <a href="https://theconversation.com/flying-home-for-christmas-carbon-offsets-are-important-but-they-wont-fix-plane-pollution-89148">credible program</a>. Consumers can also choose to fly only with airlines and operators that have committed to net-zero emissions. Net-zero aviation need not remain a flight of fantasy, but to make it a reality, emissions reduction must be at the heart of aviation’s pandemic bounce-back.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important; text-shadow: none !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/171940/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/emma-rachel-whittlesea-1280917">Emma Rachel Whittlesea</a>, Senior Research Fellow, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/griffith-university-828">Griffith University</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/tim-ryley-1253269">Tim Ryley</a>, Professor and Head of Griffith Aviation, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/griffith-university-828">Griffith University</a> This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/blue-sky-thinking-net-zero-aviation-is-more-than-a-flight-of-fantasy-171940">original article</a>. Image: Shutterstock

Domestic Travel

These New Zealand aviation experiences are a must try

New Zealand’s diverse landscapes offer an ever-unfolding natural backdrop for flight-seeing and aerial adventures so it’s no wonder that aviation tourism is a popular activity all over the country. New Zealand by air makes for spectacular sightseeing. Vast coastal expanses, high mountain peaks, deep fresh-water lakes, braided rivers, dramatic fiords and colourful volcanic landforms are some of the scenic highlights of the land – celebrated as the home of Middle-earth – that are best revealed from above. Most regions have multiple aviation adventures and activities – from flight-seeing and helicopter landings on an active volcano or a grand tour of the highest peaks in the Southern Alps, to champagne picnics in wilderness locations, West Coast glaciers heli-hikes or heli-ski excursions into remote snowy expanses. Many luxury lodges, wilderness retreats and city hotels have helipads offering easy access, transfers to and from, and the-skies-the-limit activity options – including weddings in majestic natural locations. North Island aviation activities White Island – an active marine volcano off the North Island’s Bay of Plenty coast – is a spectacular and unique landmark. Scenic flights over the island operate from Tauranga, Rotorua and Whakatane, along with helicopter tours that land on the island for a hiking option. New Zealand’s famed central North Island volcanic plateau also sets the scene for flights over Lake Taupo, a cluster of volcanic peaks – Tarawera, Ruapehu, Tongariro and Ngauruhoe – and the treasured dual world heritage Tongariro National Park. South Island aviation activities The South Island, with its sweeping Southern Alps mountain chain, and the continuous parade of lakes and glaciers is an aerial feast. Early morning balloon flights take in the vast expanse of the Canterbury Plains, Pacific seaboard and the snowy mountain peaks while The Grand Traverse is a dramatic scenic flight exploring the highest peaks on both sides of the island and over Mt Cook and Westland national parks. Aviation pioneer Mount Cook Ski Planes has been landing fixed-wing planes on a glacier for more than 50 years – and it’s still the only opportunity in the world for tourists to make this kind of glacier landing. In Westland National Park, helicopters take tourists on a spectacular ascent onto the twin West Coast glaciers – Franz Josef and Fox – with an ice landing and hike across the frozen landscape. The ski fields of the Southern Alps are the launching pad for heli-ski excursions away from the crowds on resort slopes. Methven Heliski operates from a Canterbury high country sheep station, taking powder hounds into the mighty glaciated Arrowsmiths mountain range to make first tracks across the fresh powder. Queenstown’s Over the Top luxury helicopter excursions reveal stunning hidden gems that set the scene for gourmet picnics, extreme golfing, exclusive wine and fly fishing experiences. Home of Middle-earth Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit film fans from around the world know New Zealand as the home of Middle-earth, and flying is the best way to see some of the top Lord of the Rings tourism destinations – guided by locals who helped find the locations and transport the stars during filming. In the Nelson Tasman region, Reid Helicopters operates flights to stunning Lord of the Rings locations in the beautiful Abel Tasman and Nelson Lakes national parks. From Queenstown, Glacier Southern Lakes, Trilogy Trail and Heli Works share insider stories on a string of Middle-earth locations throughout the Southern Lakes region. In the pilot seat New Zealand is an attractive destination for experienced pilots who want to take the controls while experiencing scenic highlights. Flight charter companies and aero clubs throughout New Zealand rent planes for self-fly excursions or offer flying lessons. Omarama, surrounded by the Southern Alps, is a renowned destination for gliding enthusiasts from around the world. At Wanaka, U-Fly Wanaka offers budding aviators the opportunity to pilot a dual-control Light Sports aircraft while enjoying the stunning alpine and vineyard landscape below. Aviation heritage New Zealand’s national symbol might be the flightless kiwi bird but that has never held back the human Kiwi population whose love-affair with the skies and all things aerial – from planes, helicopters, gliders and hot air balloons, to airborne adventure sports like skydive and paragliding – goes back to the earliest days of flight. New Zealanders embraced the aviation revolution as inventors, pilots and passengers. Some rose to fame – including solo pilot Jean Batten for her record-breaking journeys, early inventor-aviator Richard Pearse, and tourism pioneer Sir Henry (Harry) Wigley whose Kiwi ingenuity developed the world’s first retractable skis for planes. At New Zealand’s oldest aerodrome – Mandeville airfield near Croydon, in Southland – the Croydon Aircraft Museum has a collection of planes from the 1930s era including de Havilland aircraft. Visitors can take a nostalgic flight in a Tiger Moth or, for the daring, experience the adrenalin rush of an acrobatic joy ride. They can also watch activities in the workshop which is recognised as a world leader in aviation restoration and, once a year in February, the Mandeville Fly-In Weekend attracts incredible vintage aircraft from the 1920s and 1930s. Aviation museums & collections New Zealand’s aviation heritage and heroes are celebrated in a series of museums and collections throughout New Zealand. Notable world-class aviation collections are open to visitors in Auckland, Tauranga and Masterton (in the North Island), Marlborough and Wanaka (in the South Island). Many smaller collections are also open to the public: Auckland: MOTAT Aviation Display Hall – one of the southern hemisphere’s most impressive aircraft collections. Tauranga: Classic Flyers Aviation Museum – includes classic aircraft that regularly take to the skies and aviation memorabilia. Masterton: The Vintage Aviator Fighter Collection – rare rotating collection of airworthy WWI and WWII fighter aircraft on display at Hood Aerodrome. Marlborough: Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre – not just another museum, this is an inspiring multi-sensory experience featuring film-maker Sir Peter Jackson’s incredible collection of WWI and WWII aircraft displayed in out-of-this world movie sets. Christchurch: Air Force Museum – features several generations of classic aircraft, and entry is free. Wanaka: Wanaka Airport – home of the biennial Warbirds over Wanaka airshow – draws together several aviation experiences. Warbirds & Wheels Museum is a collection of rare fighter aircraft and vintage vehicles that tells the stories of the New Zealand flying aces of WWI and WW2, and documents the life of local flying legend Sir Tim Wallis. The National Transport and Toy Museum is one of the world’s largest private collections and includes rare and unusual aircraft and vehicles. Classic Flights will take nostalgic punters up and away in a vintage Tiger Moth. Republished with permission of <a href="https://www.mydiscoveries.com.au/stories/new-zealand-aviation-tours-experiences/">MyDiscoveries.</a>

Travel Tips

The Japanese hotel room that comes with a life-size flight simulator

For aviation enthusiasts, the flight may be the best part of a trip. But that might change after a Japanese hotel came up with a special accommodation option. The Haneda Excel Hotel Tokyu has installed a <a href="https://edition.cnn.com/travel/article/japan-hotel-flight-simulator-intl-hnk/index.html">flight simulator</a> inside one of its rooms. Guests can come in and enjoy a 90-minute flying session in the “Superior Cockpit Room” suite, where they will simulate the experience of piloting a Boeing 737-800 from Haneda to Itami Airport in Osaka. The hotel said visitors can “experience the sense that you are actually maneuvering by tilting the landscape by operating your control stick.” The hotel, which is located at Tokyo’s Haneda International Airport, offers the simulator experience for 30,000 Yen (NZ$414), complete with a flight instructor to guide you through the cockpit. You can also book the room for an additional 25,300 Yen (NZ$350) per night.

International Travel

New Zealand aviation experiences you need to try

New Zealand’s diverse landscapes offer an ever-unfolding natural backdrop for flight-seeing and aerial adventures so it’s no wonder that aviation tourism is a popular activity all over the country. New Zealand by air makes for spectacular sightseeing. Vast coastal expanses, high mountain peaks, deep fresh-water lakes, braided rivers, dramatic fiords and colourful volcanic landforms are some of the scenic highlights of the land – celebrated as the home of Middle-earth – that are best revealed from above. Most regions have multiple aviation adventures and activities – from flight-seeing and helicopter landings on an active volcano or a grand tour of the highest peaks in the Southern Alps, to champagne picnics in wilderness locations, West Coast glaciers heli-hikes or heli-ski excursions into remote snowy expanses. Many luxury lodges, wilderness retreats and city hotels have helipads offering easy access, transfers to and from, and the-skies-the-limit activity options – including weddings in majestic natural locations. North Island aviation activities White Island – an active marine volcano off the North Island’s Bay of Plenty coast – is a spectacular and unique landmark. Scenic flights over the island operate from Tauranga, Rotorua and Whakatane, along with helicopter tours that land on the island for a hiking option. New Zealand’s famed central North Island volcanic plateau also sets the scene for flights over Lake Taupo, a cluster of volcanic peaks – Tarawera, Ruapehu, Tongariro and Ngauruhoe – and the treasured dual world heritage Tongariro National Park. South Island aviation activities The South Island, with its sweeping Southern Alps mountain chain, and the continuous parade of lakes and glaciers is an aerial feast. Early morning balloon flights take in the vast expanse of the Canterbury Plains, Pacific seaboard and the snowy mountain peaks while The Grand Traverse is a dramatic scenic flight exploring the highest peaks on both sides of the island and over Mt Cook and Westland national parks. Aviation pioneer Mount Cook Ski Planes has been landing fixed-wing planes on a glacier for more than 50 years – and it’s still the only opportunity in the world for tourists to make this kind of glacier landing. In Westland National Park, helicopters take tourists on a spectacular ascent onto the twin West Coast glaciers – Franz Josef and Fox – with an ice landing and hike across the frozen landscape. The ski fields of the Southern Alps are the launching pad for heli-ski excursions away from the crowds on resort slopes. Methven Heliski operates from a Canterbury high country sheep station, taking powder hounds into the mighty glaciated Arrowsmiths mountain range to make first tracks across the fresh powder. Queenstown’s Over the Top luxury helicopter excursions reveal stunning hidden gems that set the scene for gourmet picnics, extreme golfing, exclusive wine and fly fishing experiences. Home of Middle-earth Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit film fans from around the world know New Zealand as the home of Middle-earth, and flying is the best way to see some of the top Lord of the Rings tourism destinations – guided by locals who helped find the locations and transport the stars during filming. In the Nelson Tasman region, Reid Helicopters operates flights to stunning Lord of the Rings locations in the beautiful Abel Tasman and Nelson Lakes national parks. From Queenstown, Glacier Southern Lakes, Trilogy Trail and Heli Works share insider stories on a string of Middle-earth locations throughout the Southern Lakes region. In the pilot seat New Zealand is an attractive destination for experienced pilots who want to take the controls while experiencing scenic highlights. Flight charter companies and aero clubs throughout New Zealand rent planes for self-fly excursions or offer flying lessons. Omarama, surrounded by the Southern Alps, is a renowned destination for gliding enthusiasts from around the world. At Wanaka, U-Fly Wanaka offers budding aviators the opportunity to pilot a dual-control Light Sports aircraft while enjoying the stunning alpine and vineyard landscape below. Aviation heritage New Zealand’s national symbol might be the flightless kiwi bird but that has never held back the human Kiwi population whose love-affair with the skies and all things aerial – from planes, helicopters, gliders and hot air balloons, to airborne adventure sports like skydive and paragliding – goes back to the earliest days of flight. New Zealanders embraced the aviation revolution as inventors, pilots and passengers. Some rose to fame – including solo pilot Jean Batten for her record-breaking journeys, early inventor-aviator Richard Pearse, and tourism pioneer Sir Henry (Harry) Wigley whose Kiwi ingenuity developed the world’s first retractable skis for planes. At New Zealand’s oldest aerodrome – Mandeville airfield near Croydon, in Southland – the Croydon Aircraft Museum has a collection of planes from the 1930s era including de Havilland aircraft. Visitors can take a nostalgic flight in a Tiger Moth or, for the daring, experience the adrenalin rush of an acrobatic joy ride. They can also watch activities in the workshop which is recognised as a world leader in aviation restoration and, once a year in February, the Mandeville Fly-In Weekend attracts incredible vintage aircraft from the 1920s and 1930s. Aviation museums & collections New Zealand’s aviation heritage and heroes are celebrated in a series of museums and collections throughout New Zealand. Notable world-class aviation collections are open to visitors in Auckland, Tauranga and Masterton (in the North Island), Marlborough and Wanaka (in the South Island). Many smaller collections are also open to the public: Auckland: MOTAT Aviation Display Hall – one of the southern hemisphere’s most impressive aircraft collections. Tauranga: Classic Flyers Aviation Museum – includes classic aircraft that regularly take to the skies and aviation memorabilia. Masterton: The Vintage Aviator Fighter Collection – rare rotating collection of airworthy WWI and WWII fighter aircraft on display at Hood Aerodrome. Marlborough: Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre – not just another museum, this is an inspiring multi-sensory experience featuring film-maker Sir Peter Jackson’s incredible collection of WWI and WWII aircraft displayed in out-of-this world movie sets. Christchurch: Air Force Museum – features several generations of classic aircraft, and entry is free. Wanaka: Wanaka Airport – home of the biennial Warbirds over Wanaka airshow – draws together several aviation experiences. Warbirds & Wheels Museum is a collection of rare fighter aircraft and vintage vehicles that tells the stories of the New Zealand flying aces of WWI and WW2 and documents the life of local flying legend Sir Tim Wallis. The National Transport and Toy Museum is one of the world’s largest private collections and includes rare and unusual aircraft and vehicles. Classic Flights will take nostalgic punters up and away in a vintage Tiger Moth. Aviation events New Zealand hosts several high profile aviation airshows and events: Wings over Wairarapa – three-day biennial event (February) Mandeville Vintage Aircraft Fly-in – two-day event (March) Classic Fighters at Omaka – three-day biennial event (April) Balloons over Waikato – five-day event (March) Wairarapa Balloon Festival – held annually (April) Warbirds over Wanaka – three-day biennial event (April) More information Aero Clubs: <a href="http://www.flyingnz.co.nz">www.flyingnz.co.nz</a> Air licensing requirements: <a href="http://www.caa.govt.nz">www.caa.govt.nz</a> Republished with permission of <a href="https://www.mydiscoveries.com.au/stories/new-zealand-aviation-tours-experiences/">MyDiscoveries</a>.

Travel Tips

One of the world's biggest airlines collapses

India’s Jet Airways has finally collapsed after months of speculation. The once iconic airline has been struggling for months to stay in business and the announcement follows weeks of questions over the fate of the airline. Jet Airways has failed to secure emergency funding from India’s banks and is suspending all flights. The collapse of Jet Airways is the biggest in India since the failure of Kingfisher Airlines back in 2012. The blow is massive to the Indian aviation industry, as demand soars for services. However, airlines are struggling to keep the prices low. Jet Airways explained in a statement their sadness. "This has been a very difficult decision but without interim funding, the airline is simply unable to conduct flight operations," Jet Airways said in statement. "Above all, the airline would like to express its sincere gratitude to all its employees and stakeholders that have stood by the company in these trying times." The airline was informed late on Tuesday by a range of lenders that are led by the government-run State Bank of India that the airline would not be receiving more funds. Passengers are being informed about the closure of the airline via email and text messages and are able to claim a refund. The airline’s operations had shrunk to 40 flights on 5 aircraft on Tuesday, before the closure was announced. However, the banks are continuing to search for a private investor to buy 75 per cent of the airline. The deadline for bids is May 10th.

Travel Trouble

Hawaii goes on red alert for “major eruption”

On Tuesday, explosions on Hawaii’s Kilauea volcano triggered an aviation red alert for the first time since the eruption started 12 days ago. The explosions caused ash and volcanic smog to rise 3.7 kilometres above Kilauea’s crater. The ash and smog floated southwest, covering cars on Highway 11 and causing an “unhealthy air” advisory in Pahala, a community 29 kilometres from the volcano. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> Hawaii's <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kilauea?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kilauea</a> volcano, officials have issued a <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RedAlert?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RedAlert</a> as explosive activity reaches new heights. <a href="https://t.co/li7xYb9YjG">pic.twitter.com/li7xYb9YjG</a> — Aneika Angus (@aneikaangus) <a href="https://twitter.com/aneikaangus/status/996716485371297793?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 16, 2018</a></blockquote> A red alert for aircraft means a volcanic eruption is under way which could spew ash along aircraft routes, according to the US Geological Survey (USGS) website. John Bravender of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) said a shift in winds was expected to bring ash and smog inland. “We’re observing more or less continuous emission of ash now with intermittent, more energetic ash bursts or plumes,” said Steve Brantley, a deputy scientist in charge at the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO). The observatory has warned that the eruption could become more violent. “At any time, activity may become more explosive, increasing the intensity of ash production and producing ballistic projectiles near the vent,” the HVO said in a statement after the aviation alert moved from orange to red. Ash is not poisonous but irritates the nose, eyes and breathing. USGS chemist David Damby explained that large emissions of ash could cause the failure of electrical power lines. The area worst hit by the eruption is near the village of Pahoa, 40 kilometres down Kilauea’s eastern flank. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> Kilauea volcano has already destroyed houses and hurled "splatter bombs" into the sky. Now it's wreaking havoc on Hawaii's famed tourism industry. <a href="https://t.co/ndgJ92nqsO">https://t.co/ndgJ92nqsO</a> <a href="https://t.co/ZNZS7LyC71">pic.twitter.com/ZNZS7LyC71</a> — CNN (@CNN) <a href="https://twitter.com/CNN/status/996590074975391745?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 16, 2018</a></blockquote> Lava has burst from the ground, tearing through housing developments and farmland. On Tuesday, a fissure in the Earth opened, spewing lava and toxic gases which caused air quality into “conditioned red” around Lanipuna Gardens and nearby farms. The toxic gases caused “choking and inability to breathe”, according to the HVO and Hawaii County Civil Defense. No deaths or major injuries have been reported from the eruption.

Travel Trouble

Pilot says plane engines cut out on most flights

If you’re a nervous flyer, odds are you’ve already has visions that have revolved around your airplane’s engines cutting out mid-flight followed by some nightmarish descent. But what if we were to tell you engines cut out on most routine flights? The prospect of sitting in an airplane that’s 30,000 feet in the air and doesn’t have its engines on is one that’s daunting to consider (especially if you don’t have a degree in civil aviation) but most modern aircraft are designed to glide. Even mega-jumbo jets can glide for extreme distances. If you’re sitting in the cabin and it sounds as though the engines have been turned off, it’s because they have. Aviation expert Patrick Smith told <a href="http://www.news.com.au/" target="_blank">News.com.au</a>, “It’s not the least bit uncommon for jets to descend at what a pilot calls ‘flight idle,’ with the engines run back to a zero-thrust condition,” he wrote. “They’re still operating and powering crucial systems, but providing no push. You’ve been gliding many times without knowing it. It happens on just about every flight. “Obviously an idle-thrust glide is different from the engines quitting outright, but even then, the glide itself would be no different.” Were you aware of this? Are you a nervous flyer?

International Travel

In pictures: Prince George’s first official royal engagement

Prince George made his first ever official royal engagement last Friday when he visited a Royal Airforce Station in Gloucestershire, England, with his mother and father, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. The two-year-old couldn’t hide his excitement as he toured the station with his parents, as part of the Royal International Air Tattoo, the world’s largest air show. There were 247 different aircrafts on show at the event, which aims to encourage young people to get involved with aviation. Prince William no doubt passed on his knowledge of aircrafts to his son, having graduated from the Royal Air Force in 2010. But it seems no amount of helicopters and planes could keep the Prince from feeling overwhelmed by the occasion, with snaps of him having a little cry before Kate rushed to comfort him, as only a mother knows how. But all in all, George looked like he was having a ball, especially in his baby blue noise-cancelling headphone. The official Kensington Palace Twitter account predicted he would, tweeting: “The @airtattoo is a fantastic family-orientated event. The Duke and Duchess know that George will enjoy seeing the aircraft up close.” Scroll through the gallery above to see Prince George at his first ever official royal engagement. Related links: <a href="/lifestyle/family-pets/2016/06/having-a-sibling-makes-boys-selfless/">Having a sibling makes boys selfless</a> <a href="/lifestyle/family-pets/2016/06/sibling-rivalries-in-my-childhood-shaped-who-i-am-today/">Sibling rivalries in my childhood shaped who I am today</a> <a href="/lifestyle/family-pets/2016/05/kids-are-the-worst-instagram/">In pictures: Kids behaving badly</a>

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Pilot says plane engines cut out on most flights

In pictures: Prince George’s first official royal engagement