More environmentally friendly aircraft don't have to be "the stuff of dreams"; at first they'll look very similar to today's tube-and-wing aircraft (top) but then someday look more unique, as in this hybrid wing body configuration (bottom).
Images credit: NASA

In business and in our personal lives, the aviation industry is a key enabler to our way of life and the smooth functioning of our economy. But with today's procedures and equipment, the air transport system is near maximum capacity. Future growth also could be limited by rising concerns about the environmental and noise impacts of aviation.

What is NASA doing to make air transportation quieter, cleaner and more economical?

Where is the work being done?

When will you fly in an airplane that's "green"?

NASA's Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate is looking for new ideas, conducting basic research into new technologies and operational procedures, and trying out new vehicle, operations, and safety technologies in relevant environments. Much of this work is taking place in the Environmentally Responsible Aviation Project, with exploration into improvements that can be made to current aircraft and into entirely new design approaches to future aircraft.

One of NASA's partners, the Federal Aviation Administration, is focusing on new air traffic management techniques, as well as changes that can be made in the next five years to reduce energy emissions and noise.

Learn about the very real challenges and ultimate benefits of green aviation from guests:

• Carl Burleson, acting deputy associate administrator for policy, plans and environment, the Federal Aviation Administration; and
• Fay Collier, project manager, NASA's Environmentally Responsible Aviation Project.

• Beth Dickey, public affairs officer, NASA
• Jaiwon Shin, associate administrator, Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate