Do Jet planes cause air pollution?

Answer 1

Aircraft create several types of air pollution. These occur both at the airport during fueling, takeoff and landing and while the aircraft are in flight. These are:

Greenhouse gases

Aircraft burn hydrocarbon fuel. The principle emissions from this are carbon dioxide and water. There is also some nitrogen oxide. The SAS airlines have developed a nice spreadsheet of airplanes vs. GHG emissions for travellers who want to reduce their global warming footprint.

Particulate emissions

Aircraft fuels contain some sulfur compounds. These are emitted as particulates. These particulates act as nuclei for cloud formation which may impact the ratio of light reaching the Earth from the sun. This may be seen as a "good thing" as it might reduce global warming, but putting all your potential impacts in a pot and stirring them is not good science.

Noise

The familiar roar of aircraft can reduce the enjoyment of living under an approach route to a busy airport. Some sites have curfews (designated quiet hours) or alternate approach routes for use at night.

Hydrocarbon emissions

During fueling and reving up and taxiing (when engines' exhaust composition changes) there can be an increase in hydrocarbon emissions. Hydrocarbons and NOx, both components of air traffic, can contribute to photochemical smog.

During emergencies, aircraft often dump fuel into the air to reduce fire hazards. While this is necessary for passenger safety it still contributes to hydrocarbon levels.

Answer 2

well everything that burns fuel pollute. Planes are no exception.it is the unburnt hydrocarbons which cause the pollution.but plabes pollute very little compared to other sources. About 2 to 3% carbon.

Answer 3

Planes Burn Fossil fuels which create contrails. Contrails create a cloud layer which keeps heat in.

But, there are ways to fly without polluting the environment.


I.E gliding, solar-powered planes

Answer 4

It depends on the type of plane, the fuel used and the amount of use the plane receives. Other factors contribute to the amount of fuel used while flying (and thus the pollution created) include the load weight of the plane as well as the conditions the plane is flown in.

Answer 5

Airports are a hub for air traffic so emissions from aeroplanes are more concentrated. In addition fuelling and deicing operations can cause spills and leaks. Planes taking off emit more exhaust and noise than those in cruising mode.

Answer 6

Pollution emissions from aircraft vary by aircraft type, speed, and other factors, The good folks at SAS have put out a calculator for this which allows the answer to be derived for most types of aircraft, see link.

Answer 7

yes, the jet plane causes huge pollution to air

Answer 8

yes. a very big one. they pollute the world from their exhaust pipes

Answer 9

About as much as a train.