The Operation Blue Skies project will run a large-scale trial in Shanwick oceanic airspace, controlled by NATS in the North Atlantic, to test whether small altitude adjustments can prevent aircraft from forming persistent contrails. Artificial intelligence will indicate where and when interventions could have the greatest effect, and manoeuvres will be coordinated through standard air traffic control channels.
The tests are planned for the winters of 2026–2027 and 2027–2028, with independent evaluation by the University of Cambridge and Imperial College London. The approach still needs to demonstrate its environmental benefits, but it could offer a quick way to reduce part of aviation’s climate impact.
