5 October 2010
Aircraft could be far better for the environment, create less noise and be safer for passengers thanks to new software developed by a University of Manchester academic. The software called FLIGHT, developed by Dr Antonio Filippone can now expertly predict the true level of emissions released and help the industry improve their environmental reputation.
While the potential to reduce emissions is arguably the most important use of FLIGHT, it has a range of other functions from noise reduction to accident investigation and prevention. FLIGHT can help air traffic controllers and airline authorities determine the best flight path for incoming and outgoing aircraft by providing exact measurements of noise on take-off and landing. The software can also help airline companies with passenger load and the weight of luggage.
Dr Filippone, from the School of Mechanical, Aerospace and Civil Engineering, said the carbon emission estimates currently provided by the airline industry are far from realistic. He added that these estimates do not account for factors such as climb and descent, and do not account for the actual aircraft load, as well as items including on-board services and bulk cargo. This is the method used to calculate the cost of the carbon that sometimes is added voluntarily to the cost of the travel tickets.
Some stock markets have started trading carbon credits as ordinary commodities. It is recognised that a carbon-trading scheme will have a huge impact on the profitability of the airlines. If an accurate method of calculating these emissions becomes available, the entire business will become more transparent.
FLIGHT can optimise the airplane trajectories for minimum fuel consumption and can determine flight paths that avoid or minimise contrail formation.
The website to download the programme is www.flightsoftware.co.uk