2025 | iKoR

Recent studies show that the formation of contrails, which have a significant impact on the environment, can be reduced by controlling flight routes. iKoR aims to minimize the formation of contrails through an intelligent flight planning system that takes into account atmospheric conditions, safety regulations, air traffic, and fuel consumption.

Contrails contribute to global warming by trapping heat (infrared radiation) that would otherwise escape into space. Although they also reflect some of the sunlight, causing a slight cooling effect, their overall impact leads to net warming, especially at night.

The aim of the iKoR project is to investigate the integration of AI technology into aviation. To this end, an intelligent multi-agent algorithm is being developed that aims to minimize the formation of contrails through optimized route planning, thereby reducing the impact of air traffic on the climate.

The project is funded by the Friedrich and Elisabeth Boysen Foundation. This foundation is known for promoting engineering projects aimed at developing environmentally relevant technologies and processes.