Cooperation Between Science and Aviation-Sector Service Providers in Europe for Risk Management of Volcanic Ash

• Published in: Transportation Research Record: Journal of the Transportation Research Board
• Main Authors: Reichardt, Uta, Ulfarsson, Gudmundur F., Petursdottir, Gudrun
• Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
• Language: English
• Published: SAGE Publications 2017
• Subjects: Eyjafjallajökull
• Online Access: http://dx.doi.org/10.3141/2626-12; http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.3141/2626-12

The eruption of Eyjafjallajökull in April–May 2010 (hereafter E2010) revealed the fragility of air traffic in the case of an ash-producing volcanic eruption. This study examines developments since E2010 of cooperation between science and aviation-sector service providers toward efforts for improved resilience against a new volcanic eruption. The research builds on literature and interviews with representatives from research and regulatory institutes, air traffic managers, aircraft operators, and engine manufacturers across Europe. The article describes how scientific advice was requested to revise the regulatory precautionary approach and reopen airspace during E2010. The paper depicts the increased effort of scientific advancement in the understanding of ash characterization, modeling of the volcanic ash plume, and atmospheric environment. Furthermore, cross-disciplinary workshops and the memorandum of understanding between Icelandic and British institutions are examined to document increased cooperation between scientists and aviation-sector service providers to provide support to decision makers. However, the science needed for improved risk management is complex and depends on the effects of volcanic ash on jet engines. The concentration levels decided on over the course of a few days in 2010 have not been revised, and the aviation industry does not seem to prioritize research into these issues. A dialogue is needed between science, governance, and engine manufacturers, as well as more collective research funding to test jet engines to improve informed decision making, rather than leaving such research only to the manufacturers and internal political agendas.