BOSTON: The International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) 77th annual general
meeting approved a resolution for the global air transport industry to achieve net-zero
carbon emissions by 2050.
This commitment will align with the Paris Agreement goal for global warming not to
exceed 1.5°C.
Director-General Willie Walsh said: “The world’s airlines have taken a momentous
decision to ensure that flying is sustainable. The post-Covid-19 re-connect will be on a
clear path towards net zero.
“That will ensure the freedom of future generations to sustainably explore, learn, trade,
build markets, appreciate cultures and connect with people the world over. With the
collective efforts of the entire value chain and supportive government policies, aviation
will achieve net zero emissions by 2050.”
Achieving net-zero emissions will be a huge challenge. The aviation industry must
progressively reduce its emissions while accommodating the growing demand of
a world that is eager to fly.
To be able to serve the needs of the ten billion people expected to fly in 2050, at least
1.8 gigatons of carbon must be abated in that year. Moreover, the net zero commitment
implies that a cumulative total of 21.2 gigatons of carbon will be abated between now
and 2050.
A key immediate enabler is the International Civil Aviation Organisation’s (ICAO)
Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA). This will
stabilise international emissions at 2019 levels in the short-to-medium term. Support for
this was reaffirmed in the resolution.
Walsh added: “Achieving sustainable global connectivity cannot be accomplished on
the backs of airlines alone. All parts of the aviation industry must work together within a
supportive government policy framework to deliver the massive changes that are
needed, including an energy transition. That is no different than what we are seeing in
other industries.
“Road transport sustainability efforts, for example, are not being advanced by drivers
building electric vehicles. Governments are providing policies and financial incentives
for infrastructure providers, manufacturers and car owners to be able to collectively
make the changes needed for a sustainable future. The same should apply to aviation.”
