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About Paul Ruderham
Expertise
I have been studying aviation for over twenty years. I know about the function of airlines, how aeroplanes fly, aviation accidents and why they happen. I am also an accomplished model aeroplane pilot, and a flight simulator expert. I have flown chipmunks and light aircraft.

Experience
Hands on experience working at the airport, plus many hours of studying airlines and different types of aeroplanes.

Organizations
Jersey model aero club

 
   

You are here:  Experts > Shopping > Air Travel > Aviation/Flying > Jets

Aviation/Flying - Jets


Expert: Paul Ruderham - 7/3/2005

Question
Why when you look up at some jets in the sky
there are streams of smoke going across the
sky and others not.  Thanks. Deb

Answer
Dear Deb,

What you are looking at are condensation trails or "Con trails" for short.
These are caused by the hot gases and air produced by the engines of the jets. When they mix with the cold air at height it produces water trails which show up as the white streaks you see.

regards
PR

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