Answers to Questions

AIRCRAFT CONTRAILS

In reply to the Hon. A. BRESSINGTON (29 November 2011).

The Hon. I.K. HUNTER (Minister for Communities and Social Inclusion, Minister for Social Housing, Minister for Disabilities, Minister for Youth, Minister for Volunteers): The Minister for Sustainability, Environment and Conservation has advised:

1. The Environment Protection Authority has advised that the trails emanating from high altitude jets are a result of condensation.

2. & 3. The phenomenon described in the member's question is commonly referred to as contrails or vapour trails. I am advised that these trails are condensation left by jet aircraft that are flying at an altitude where the heat of the craft's exhaust combines with cold air and low vapour pressure to create water droplets.

4. As there is no spraying activity, no monitoring is necessary.