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The purpose of this paper is to inquire into the impact of environmental pollution from air transportation on a national, European and international scale, in order to properly manage the problem, which is increasingly deteriorating over the years. Initially, there is a historical overview describing man's original desire and need for 'conquest' of airspace. There is reference to the individuals who contributed to it and to the ways in which it has been used for centuries. Ideas and solutions on how airlines are tackling this phenomenon are proposed, after providing information of their influence to the escalating problem of airborne pollutants. The way in which management of not only air carriers but also of airports, which have now been transformed into multi-functional complex business units, should be taken seriously in order to address the critical issue of environmental pollution. To do so, a review of the operation and evolution of aeronautical technology and industry in recent decades is given.