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Inclusion of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) in EU’s Net-Zero Industry Act only the first step in developing world leading SAF industry in Europe

  • Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAFs) key to reaching net zero
  • European aviation industry hails the inclusion of SAF on the single list of net zero technologies in the EU’s Net Zero Industry Act (NZIA)
  • This is a prerequisite to pave the way towards the development of a strong, globally competitive EU SAF market, which in turn will be crucial in delivering on the updated EU 2040 climate ambitions
  • But further action by policymakers is needed

Brussels,  8 February 2024 – Reacting to the inclusion of SAF on the single list of ‘net zero technology’ under the EU Net Zero Industry Act with criteria for selecting strategic projects in those technologies, the five leading European aviation associations representing Europe’s airlines, airports, civil aeronautics industry and air navigation service providers – which are close partners through the DESTINATION 2050 alliance – are calling on EU policymakers to go further to ensure Europe develops a world leading SAF industry that will be crucial for European aviation to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050 in line with EU climate ambitions.

The inclusion of SAF in the NZIA is all the more timely following the release of the EU’s recommendation to update the 2040 climate targets this week. The European Commission’s communication recommending the new target expressly recognised the need to address barriers to SAF deployment at scale, giving the aviation sector priority access to feedstocks and putting incentives in place to close the price gap between SAF and conventional kerosene. SAFs are a crucial component that will enable European aviation to accelerate its decarbonisation, in full alignment with the bloc’s ambitious climate agenda.

The international race to become a SAF leader has started and further policy incentives to scale up the production and uptake are required for Europe to become a leader in the global competition for SAF. These include the extension of the SAF flexibility mechanism beyond 2034; the extension of the current 20 million allowances threshold and 2030 time-limit under the SAF allowances mechanisms; increased financial support for development of SAF, including through the Innovation Fund, as well as simplifying the administrative procedure for accessing these funds.

ENDS

About DESTINATION 2050

Europe’s aviation sector is collectively on board to lead the way in reducing aviation CO2 emissions by 2030 and 2050 – making flying more sustainable for the long term. In February 2021, Europe’s airlines, airports, civil aeronautics industry and air navigation service providers laid out a joint long-term vision along with concrete solutions to the complex challenge of reaching net-zero CO2 emissions from all flights departing the EU, UK and EFTA by 2050. The independent report by the Royal Netherlands Aerospace Centre (NLR) and SEO Amsterdam Economics shows how a combination of actions from all stakeholders – including the EU and national governments – in four key areas could achieve substantial CO2 emissions reductions in line with EU climate goals. These include: Improvements in aircraft and engine technologies (including hybrid, electric and hydrogen propulsion), using sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs) both for fixed- and rotary-wing platforms, implementing economic measures and improvements in air traffic management (ATM) and aircraft operations. For more information, visit www.destination2050.eu

A4E
Kevin Hiney
Communications Director

Email: kevin.hiney@a4e.eu
Phone: +32 499 82 82 94

ACI EUROPE
Agata Lyznik
Director of Communications and Media
Email: agata.lyznik@aci-europe.org
Phone: +32 2 552 09 89

ASD
Adrian Schmitz
Communications Director
Email: adrian.schmitz@asd-europe.org
Phone: +32 473 13 33 30

CANSO Europe
Johnny Pring
Manager Europe Policy and Advocacy
Email: johnny.pring@canso.org
Phone: +32 493 53 61 24

ERA
Paula Bangle
GM Business Development
Email: paula.bangle@eraa.org
Phone: +44 1276 485558

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European aviation industry welcomes CAAF/3 agreement on Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF)

Brussels, 27 November 2023 – The five leading European aviation associations representing Europe’s airlines, airports, civil aeronautics industry and air navigation service providers, which are close partners through the DESTINATION 2050 alliance – A4E, ACI EUROPE, ASD, CANSO Europe, and ERA –welcome the agreement reached by ICAO Member States at the Third Conference on Aviation Alternative Fuels (CAAF/3) in Dubai.

The agreement is an important step necessary to start implementing the ICAO’s Long Term Aspirational Goal of reaching net zero carbon emissions by 2050 for international aviation. Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAFs) are a crucial component of aviation’s pathway to climate neutrality.

The DESTINATION 2050 partners in particular applaud the inclusion of a 5% CO2 emissions reduction objective by 2030 through SAF use globally, which will provide a clear signal for the energy sector to develop alternative fuels and attract the necessary investment.


About DESTINATION 2050

Europe’s aviation sector is collectively on board to lead the way in reducing aviation CO2 emissions by 2030 and 2050 – making flying more sustainable for the long term. In February 2021, Europe’s airlines, airports, civil aeronautics industry and air navigation service providers laid out a joint long-term vision along with concrete solutions to the complex challenge of reaching net-zero CO2 emissions from all flights departing the EU, UK and EFTA by 2050. The independent report by the Royal Netherlands Aerospace Centre (NLR) and SEO Amsterdam Economics shows how a combination of actions from all stakeholders – including the EU and national governments – in four key areas could achieve substantial CO2 emissions reductions in line with EU climate goals. These include: Improvements in aircraft and engine technologies (including hybrid, electric and hydrogen propulsion), using sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs) both for fixed- and rotary-wing platforms, implementing economic measures and improvements in air traffic management (ATM) and aircraft operations. For more information, visit www.destination2050.eu

A4E
Kevin Hiney
Communications Director

Email: kevin.hiney@a4e.eu
Phone: +32 499 82 82 94

ACI EUROPE
Agata Lyznik
Director of Communications and Media
Email: agata.lyznik@aci-europe.org
Phone: +32 2 552 09 89

ASD
Adrian Schmitz
Communications Director
Email: adrian.schmitz@asd-europe.org
Phone: +32 473 13 33 30

CANSO Europe
Johnny Pring
Manager Europe Policy and Advocacy
Email: johnny.pring@canso.org
Phone: +32 493 53 61 24

ERA
Paula Bangle
GM Business Development
Email: paula.bangle@eraa.org
Phone: +44 1276 485558

Categories
News Press Release

European aviation industry looks forward to global progress following adoption of European legislation on Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)

  • European aviation industry hails the adoption of the ReFuelEU Regulation
  • Sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) key to reaching Net Zero
  • More support is needed to secure Europe’s access to feedstock and SAF production capacity
  • November ICAO Conference on Aviation Alternative Fuels is key milestone for development of SAF worldwide

Brussels, 13 September 2023 – The five leading European aviation associations representing Europe’s airlines, airports, civil aeronautics industry and air navigation service providers, which are close partners through the DESTINATION 2050 alliance – A4E, ACI EUROPE, ASD, CANSO Europe, and ERA – today welcomed the adoption of the ReFuelEU Aviation Regulation and look forward to further SAF deployment globally.

The adoption marks an important and timely step necessary to realising the ambitious decarbonisation targets set out in the DESTINATION 2050 roadmap. Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAFs) are a crucial component of this roadmap and today’s adoption of the ReFuelEU legislation lays the foundation for ambitious blending shares of SAF in aviation fuel.

While EU investors and industrial partners have now received a clear signal to unleash their investments, the EU shall ensure that the required uptake of SAF consumption will boost the European SAF industry. The international race to become a SAF leader has started and the ReFuelEU Aviation Regulation should therefore be complemented with further incentives to scale up SAF production and uptake in Europe through their inclusion into the EU Net Zero Industry Act (NZIA) as part of the strategic net-zero technologies, mirroring the US approach in the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA).

Aviation is global by nature and we need to ensure the decarbonisation of aviation is global as well. The European air transport sector strongly encourages the wider promotion of SAF around the world. The DESTINATION 2050 partners call on states and the wider aviation industry across all world regions and at global level to join forces and rally around ambitious and credible SAF objectives – to ensure aviation globally remains on track to attain the ICAO Long-Term Aspirational Goal (LTAG) of global net-zero carbon emissions for aviation by 2050.

Political support for the net-zero future of aviation is key. It requires policies and incentives that scale up the global development and production of SAF.

A robust worldwide climate policy framework for SAF is needed. The November 2023 ICAO Conference on Aviation Alternative Fuels (CAAF/3) is a unique opportunity to put in place the right milestones and to deliver ambitious targets for SAF deployment worldwide.

ENDS

About DESTINATION 2050

Europe’s aviation sector is collectively on board to lead the way in reducing aviation CO2 emissions by 2030 and 2050 – making flying more sustainable for the long term. In February 2021, Europe’s airlines, airports, civil aeronautics industry and air navigation service providers laid out a joint long-term vision along with concrete solutions to the complex challenge of reaching net-zero CO2 emissions from all flights departing the EU, UK and EFTA by 2050. The independent report by the Royal Netherlands Aerospace Centre (NLR) and SEO Amsterdam Economics shows how a combination of actions from all stakeholders – including the EU and national governments – in four key areas could achieve substantial CO2 emissions reductions in line with EU climate goals. These include: Improvements in aircraft and engine technologies (including hybrid, electric and hydrogen propulsion), using sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs) both for fixed- and rotary-wing platforms, implementing economic measures and improvements in air traffic management (ATM) and aircraft operations. For more information, visit www.destination2050.eu

Media contacts

A4E
Kevin Hiney
Communications Director

Email: kevin.hiney@a4e.eu
Phone: +32 499 82 82 94

ACI EUROPE
Agata Lyznik
Director of Communications and Media
Email: agata.lyznik@aci-europe.org
Phone: +32 2 552 09 89

ASD
Adrian Schmitz
Communications Director
Email: adrian.schmitz@asd-europe.org
Phone: +32 473 13 33 30

CANSO Europe
Johnny Pring
Manager Europe Policy and Advocacy
Email: johnny.pring@canso.org
Phone: +32 493 53 61 24

ERA
Paula Bangle
GM Business Development
Email: paula.bangle@eraa.org
Phone: +44 1276 485558

Categories
News

European aviation industry calls for swift adoption of ReFuelEU Aviation Regulation

Sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) key to reaching Net Zero

Brussels, 8 June 2023 – Sustainable aviation is a shared goal across societies, industries and economies. It is right and proper that this crucial debate is had, and is had publicly. In light of scrutiny of the issue over the past few days, the five leading European aviation associations which are close partners in the Destination 2050 decarbonisation roadmap – A4E, ACI EUROPE, ASD, CANSO, and ERA – are reconfirming their support for the ReFuelEU Aviation Regulation. In doing so, they are also urging member states to unstick the ReFuelEU Aviation Regulation and begin making Europe a leader in SAF production worldwide.

Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) play a decisive role in the decarbonisation roadmap to which the sector has committed.

The international race for SAF leadership has started and EU investors and industrial partners are waiting for a strong policy signal from the legislators to unleash their investments. The EU institutions cannot afford to delay further their decision and the EU to be left behind in terms of decarbonisation and competitiveness. Accelerating the take-up of renewables over the next decade is key to enabling the transition towards a carbon-neutral economy and meeting the EU climate objectives.

The ReFuelEU Aviation Regulation should therefore be complemented with further incentives for production of SAF through their inclusion into the EU Net Zero Industry Act (NZIA), mirroring the US approach in the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA).

The European aviation industry was the first in the world to commit to the realisation of a net-zero goal for all departing flights by 2050 through DESTINATION 2050. This will be achieved through a combination of four key pillars including improvements in aircraft and engine technologies, the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF), economic measures, and improvements to air traffic management (ATM) and aircraft operations in Europe. We are committed to continuing our constructive and robust engagement with the EU authorities to achieve our shared goal of aviation decarbonisation through ReFuelEU Aviation and the Net Zero Industry Act.

About Destination 2050

Europe’s aviation sector is collectively on board to lead the way in reducing aviation CO2 emissions by 2030 and 2050 – making flying more sustainable for the long term. In February 2021, Europe’s airlines, airports, aerospace manufacturers and air navigation service providers laid out a joint long-term vision along with concrete solutions to the complex challenge of reaching net zero CO2 emissions from all flights departing the EU, UK and EFTA by 2050. The independent report by the Royal Netherlands Aerospace Centre (NLR) and SEO Amsterdam Economics shows how a combination of actions from all stakeholders – including the EU and national governments – in four key areas could achieve substantial CO2 emissions reductions in line with EU climate goals. These include: Improvements in aircraft and engine technologies (including hybrid, electric and hydrogen propulsion), using sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs) both for fixed- and rotary-wing platforms, implementing economic measures and improvements in air traffic management (ATM) and aircraft operations. For more information, visit http://www.destination2050.eu/.

Media contacts

A4E
Kevin Hiney
Communications Director
Email: kevin.hiney@a4e.eu
Phone: +32 499 82 82 94

ACI EUROPE
Virginia Lee
Director, Media & Communications
Email: virginia.lee@aci-europe.org
Phone: +32 2 552 09 82

ASD
Adrian Schmitz
Communications Director
Email: adrian.schmitz@asd-europe.org
Phone: +32 473 13 33 30

CANSO
Johnny Pring
Manager Europe Policy and Advocacy
Email: johnny.pring@canso.org
Phone: +32 493 53 61 24

ERA
Paula Bangle
GM Business Development
Email: paula.bangle@eraa.org
Phone: +44 1276 485558

Categories
News Press Release

European aviation industry welcomes EU trilogue agreement on RefuelEU Aviation regulation as an important step towards decarbonisation of the aviation sector

Brussels, 26 April – The five leading European aviation associations which are close partners through the DESTINATION 2050 decarbonisation roadmap – A4E, ACI EUROPE, ASD, CANSO, and ERA – welcome yesterday’s political agreement between the European Parliament and the Council of the EU on the ReFuel EU Aviation regulation.

The agreement marks an important and timely step necessary to the realisation of the ambitious targets of the decarbonization roadmap to which the sector has committed. Sustainable Aviation Fuels play a decisive role in that endeavour and the agreement lays the foundation for all key stakeholders to move on in a concerted effort to reach the blending shares of SAF to kerosene agreed upon. This is expected to stimulate increased production and larger scale market-uptake of SAF through to 2050.

Through DESTINATION 2050, announced in early 2021, the European aviation industry was the first in the world to commit to the realisation of a net-zero goal for all departing flights by 2050. This will be achieved through a combination of four key pillars including improvements in aircraft and engine technologies, using Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF), implementing economic measures, and improvements to air traffic management (ATM) and aircraft operations in Europe.

Whilst the trilogue agreement is an important step into the right direction, further support is needed through complementary EU policies and initiatives.

About DESTINATION 2050

Europe’s aviation sector is collectively on board to lead the way in reducing aviation CO2 emissions by 2030 and 2050 – making flying more sustainable for the long term. In February 2021, Europe’s airlines, airports, aerospace manufacturers and air navigation service providers laid out a joint long-term vision along with concrete solutions to the complex challenge of reaching net zero CO2 emissions from all flights departing the EU, UK and EFTA by 2050. The independent report by the Royal Netherlands Aerospace Centre (NLR) and SEO Amsterdam Economics shows how a combination of actions from all stakeholders – including the EU and national governments – in four key areas could achieve substantial CO2 emissions reductions in line with EU climate goals. These include: Improvements in aircraft and engine technologies (including hybrid, electric and hydrogen propulsion), using sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs) both for fixed- and rotary-wing platforms, implementing economic measures and improvements in air traffic management (ATM) and aircraft operations. For more information, visit www.destination2050.eu

Media contacts

A4E
Kevin Hiney
Communications Director

Email: kevin.hiney@a4e.eu
Phone: +32 499 82 82 94

ACI EUROPE
Virginia Lee
Senior Vice President: Communications, Membership and Marketing

Email: virginia.lee@aci-europe.org
Phone: +32 2 552 09 82

ASD
Adrian Schmitz
Communications Director

Email: adrian.schmitz@asd-europe.org
Phone: +32 473 13 33 30

CANSO
Johnny Pring
Manager Europe Policy and Advocacy

Email: johnny.pring@canso.org
Phone: +32 493 53 61 24

ERA
Paula Bangle
GM Business Development

Email: paula.bangle@eraa.org
Phone: +44 1276 485558

Categories
News

DESTINATION 2050 Partners Release The Price of Net Zero Report

The DESTINATION 2050 partners commissioned a new report from the consultancies SEO Amsterdam Economics (SEO) and the Royal Netherlands Aerospace Centre (NLR), as a follow-up to the DESTINATION 2050 roadmap. The aim of the new study is to calculate the expenditures that are necessary to achieve the targets set out in the DESTINATION 2050 roadmap and accelerate European aviation’s decarbonisation.

Although challenging to do an accurate assessment of the price of reaching net zero for the European aviation sector, we have commissioned this scientific study to establish a better understanding.

Aviation plays a critical role in the European socio-economic model, bringing people and regions closer together and facilitating transport of goods. The European aviation ecosystem continually drives forward innovation and technology thanks to highly skilled employees upholding competitiveness worldwide in this crucial sector.

We are firmly committed to a climate neutral European aviation in line with the EU climate goals and the Paris Agreement targets. Therefore, decarbonisation is at the heart of our business.


“The Price of Net Zero” Report Launch
“The Price of Net Zero” Interviews

DESTINATION 2050 partners ask policy makers – national and European – to facilitate the pathway towards an environmentally and economically sustainable European aviation sector by appropriate supporting measures necessary to drive the transition towards net zero.

 The aviation sector’s expenditures towards achieving net zero are substantial and are dependent on access to finance from the private and public sector. This is vital when capital reserves are insufficient to make large upfront payments for new aircraft and infrastructure.

The availability of capital can be facilitated with the right set of incentives and policies as outlined in the below Reflection Paper covering notably sustainable aviation fuels, air traffic management and operations, engine and aircraft technology, airport infrastructure and economic measures.

The aviation sector’s ability to finance its decarbonisation pathway depends largely on its financial and operational health.

Only with the right set of incentives and policies, the required capital can be made available for the sector’s decarbonisation. This means timely and effective measures bringing long-term clarity and predictability for investors. Regulatory frameworks must encourage low carbon technology deployment.

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News Press Release

European aviation welcomes ICAO Assembly agreement on net-zero future

  • Destination 2050 partners voice full support for ICAO Assembly’s agreement on net-zero goal, aligning sector’s objective with the Paris Agreement
  • Industry reiterates its call for policies which support sector’s transition

Brussels, 07 October 2022 – Today, the five leading European aviation associations[1] which are close partners through the Destination 2050 decarbonisation roadmap, came out in strong support of the outcome of the 41st Triennial International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Assembly.

The UN body overseeing the global civil air transport sector succeeded in setting net zero CO2 emissions by 2050 as the worldwide climate goal for aviation, de facto aligning its climate ambition with the Paris Agreement as well as the global aviation industry’s own target and commitment. The Destination 2050 partners stressed the importance of global political support for the net-zero future for aviation, and called on ICAO and its Member States to work on emissions reduction objectives through a global approach with coordinated policies for the entire sector.

Through Destination 2050, the European aviation industry was the first in the world to commit to the realisation of a net-zero goal for all departing flights. Announced in early 2021, the Destination 2050 alliance and commitment included a comprehensive roadmap based on a clear set of measures to reach that goal. The Destination 2050 partners remain fully committed to this roadmap and call for political support for its four pillars including with aircraft and engine technologies, air traffic management and aircraft operations, Sustainable Aviation Fuels and smart economic measures.

Aviation, as a global enterprise, needs climate policies that ensure harmonised approaches for all stakeholders, and to be met by commensurate actions across all regions. In this respect, the Destination 2050 partners praised the long-awaited global agreement at ICAO. They recognised its key role in providing consistency among policies, creating a level playing field, and setting the ground for the necessary regulatory certainty for investment and finance to secure a sustainable future for the air transport sector globally.

ENDS

Media contacts

A4E
Kevin Hiney
Communications Director

Email: kevin.hiney@a4e.eu
Phone: +32 499 82 82 94

ACI EUROPE
Virginia Lee
Senior Vice President: Communications, Membership and Marketing

Email: virginia.lee@aci-europe.org
Phone: +32 2 552 09 82

ASD Europe
Adrian Schmitz
Communications Director

Email: adrian.schmitz@asd-europe.org
Phone: +32 473 13 33 30

CANSO
Johnny Pring
Manager Europe Policy and Advocacy

Email: johnny.pring@canso.org
Phone: +32 493 53 61 24

ERA
Paula Bangle
GM Business Development

Email: paula.bangle@eraa.org
Phone: +44 1276 485558


[1] AeroSpace and Defence Industries Association of Europe (ASD Europe), Airports Council International Europe (ACI EUROPE), Airlines for Europe (A4E), Civil Air Navigation Services Organisation (CANSO), European Regions’ Airline Association (ERA) 

Categories
News Press Release

Flights to Lyon demonstrate potential for greening of aviation

Aviation associations call for policies to support the continued transition to net zero carbon emissions

Lyon, 28 June 2022 – Today, five European flights will converge on Lyon Airport, applying innovative technologies, fuels and air navigation procedures to minimise their carbon emissions, thus showing the potential to transform the environmental impact of the aviation industry. The flights – from Amsterdam, Barcelona, Bucharest, Frankfurt and Lisbon – are arriving this afternoon on the occasion of the European Commission’s ‘Connecting Europe Days’ event using the following measures:

  • Environmentally optimised routings – By taking advantage of airspace normally reserved for the military and by using improved vertical and lateral profiles, new, more direct routings are made possible, improving trajectories and descents into Lyon Airport’s approach airspace. In this way, the five flights are achieving a more optimal trajectory for minimising fuel burn and thus reducing emissions. These are made possible thanks to collaboration between EUROCONTROL, the air navigation service providers from eleven countries[1] and the respective National Military Authorities, in partnership with the ALBATROSS project[2].
  • Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAFs): Airlines including Air France, easyJet, KLM, Lufthansa, Transavia and Vueling are each uplifting 30% SAF on a total of ten flights departing from Lyon, resulting in a CO2 emissions reduction of 27% per flight compared to conventional fuel use. Increased SAF uptake has been proven to be the most effective means to decarbonise aviation in the next decades until newer technologies, such as hydrogen, become available.
  • Carbon neutral airport operations and infrastructure – Lyon Airport is deploying the most energy-efficient operational know-how and solutions for turnaround of these aircraft. The host airport is an exemplary part of VINCI Airports’ environmental strategy, having already achieved carbon neutrality with compensation in 2017 within Airport Carbon Accreditation.  It is now on course to become the first commercial airport in France to reach net zero CO2 emissions by 2026 within the scope of its business. Lyon Airport is also a pilot for VINCI Airports’ plan to kickstart hydrogen use at airports to accommodate hydrogen-powered aircraft as early as 2023, in partnership with Airbus and Air Liquide. 

This coordinated action has shown what can be achieved through the application of measures set out in the Destination 2050 Roadmap,[3] an initiative of the five leading European aviation associations[4] to identify a pathway for their sector to reach the EU’s climate goal of net zero carbon emissions by 2050. The European aviation industry is committed to this Roadmap, but in order to make today’s exceptional measures possible on a wider basis, they call for political support for its four pillars, including:

Aircraft and engine technologies

  • New technologies are expected to enter the market in the 2030s. To make this happen, Technology Readiness Level (TRL) is needed by 2027-2030 and efficient certification procedures are required. At the same time, the further enhancement of existing technologies should not be neglected as they still have vast potential to contribute to the drastic reduction of aviation emissions. So far, each new generation of aircraft is on average 20% more fuel efficient than its predecessors.
  • Full support for funding programmes at EU level (via the Clean Aviation Joint Undertaking) and Member State level is needed to stimulate further development and deployment of new technologies.
  • Support industry via incentives and de-risking investments.

Air traffic management and aircraft operations

  • Full support for research under the EU’s SESAR 3 Joint Undertaking on new technologies and procedures is needed to enable the transition to more sustainable and efficient skies.
  • National governments to fully implement the Single European Sky, for example by supporting the roll-out of measures such as cross-border Free Route Airspace (allowing aircraft to freely plan a more direct route between defined entry and exit points) and Flexible Use of Airspace (enabling a switch from military to civilian use at short notice).

SAFs

  • Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAFs) represent one of the most promising solutions to decarbonise aviation, however production is still very low and prices are too high.
  • Incentives are necessary to incentivise production and bridge the price gap between SAFs and conventional jet fuel.
  • An EU blending mandate offers the necessary policy framework to increase production and uptake of SAF.

Smart economic measures

  • Economic measures will be critical in the short term until the sector can start relying on SAFs and new technologies (circa 2030s).
  • An ambitious global measure, such as CORSIA, is necessary. Aviation is by its nature a global industry, therefore it needs one single emissions trading/offsetting scheme to avoid carbon leakage and double counting of emissions.

With the necessary political support and the right legislative framework, our members can take the required steps to achieve the EU’s net zero carbon emissions target by 2050.

ENDS

Notes to editor:

Flights on 28 June include: EasyJet: Flights EJU4434 from Lisbon to Lyon; Lyon to Gatwick and Lyon to Toulouse; Lufthansa:Flight LH1076 from Frankfurt to Lyon and flight LH1077 from Lyon to Frankfurt; Air France flights AF1594 from Lyon to Brest and AF1574 from Lyon to Pau; KLM flight KL1415 from Amsterdam to Lyon, flights KL1416 and KL1418 from Lyon to Amsterdam; Transavia flight TO7770 from Lyon to Porto; Vueling flight VY1220 from Barcelona to Lyon and flight VY1221 from Lyon to Barcelona. See also Connecting Europe by Air programme for more information.

About Destination 2050

Europe’s aviation sector is collectively on board to lead the way in reducing aviation CO2 emissions by 2030 and 2050 – making flying more sustainable for the long term. In February 2021, Europe’s airlines, airports, aerospace manufacturers and air navigation service providers laid out a joint long-term vision along with concrete solutions to the complex challenge of reaching net zero CO2 emissions from all flights departing the EU, UK and EFTA by 2050. The independent report by the Royal Netherlands Aerospace Centre (NLR) and SEO Amsterdam Economics shows how a combination of actions from all stakeholders – including the EU and national governments – in four key areas could achieve substantial CO2 emissions reductions in line with EU climate goals. These include: Improvements in aircraft and engine technologies (including hybrid, electric and hydrogen propulsion), using sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs) both for fixed- and rotary-wing platforms, implementing economic measures and improvements in air traffic management (ATM) and aircraft operations. For more information, visit www.destination2050.eu

Media contacts:

A4E Jennifer Janzen, Communications Director Email: Jennifer.Janzen@a4e.eu Phone: +32 499 828294  ACI EUROPE Virginia Lee, Director of Media and Communications
Email: virginia.lee@aci-europe.org
Phone: +32 2 552 09 82  
ASD Europe Adrian Schmitz, Communications Director
Email: adrian.schmitz@asd-europe.org  
Phone: +32 473 13 33 30  
CANSO Johnny Pring, Manager Europe Policy and Advocacy
Email: johnny.pring@canso.org
Phone: +32 493 53 61 24
ERA Paula Bangle, GM Business Development Email: paula.bangle@eraa.org
Phone: +44 1276 485558
 

[1] Belgium (skeyes), Croatia (Croatia Control), France (DSNA), Germany (DFS), Italy (ENAV), the Netherlands (LVNL), Portugal (NAV Portugal), Romania (ROMATSA), Serbia (SMATSA), Spain (ENAIRE) and Switzerland (skyguide)

[2] https://www.dlr.de/ft/en/desktopdefault.aspx/tabid-17433/

[3] https://www.destination2050.eu/

[4] A4E, ACI EUROPE, ASD Europe, CANSO, ERA

Categories
News Press Release

European countries sign breakthrough “Toulouse Declaration” with aviation — driving sector’s decarbonisation plans forward

  • First-ever public-private initiative supporting aviation’s decarbonisation goals signed by over 35 European countries and 146 industry stakeholder groups in Toulouse, including the five leading European aviation associations 1 represented through Destination 2050
  • Declaration fully aligns with the sector’s collective European and global initiative to achieve net zero CO2 emissions by 2050 2
  • Destination 2050 partners reiterate their call for a structured dialogue between policy-makers and industry via an “EU Pact for Aviation Decarbonisation”, with concrete policy as well as financial measures to support aviation’s green transformation
  • Paves the way for the UN’s ICAO to deliver on strengthened climate goals at 2022 Assembly

Toulouse / Brussels, 04 February 2022 – The Destination 2050 associations and their members today endorsed the “Toulouse Declaration” – the first-ever public-private initiative setting a joint vision and supporting European aviation’s goal to reach net zero CO2 emissions by 2050. This is also the first joint initiative of its kind globally, aligning all European stakeholders on the principles and actions needed to decarbonise and transform its aviation sector, representing a true breakthrough.

The Destination 2050 decarbonisation roadmap was launched in 2021 by Europe’s five leading aviation associations, representing airlines, airports, aerospace manufacturers and air navigation service providers. It lays out a joint industry long-term vision with the same net zero CO2 emissions objective, consistent with the EU’s long-term climate goals and the Paris Agreement.    

Next step: An EU Pact for Aviation Decarbonisation

The Destination 2050 partners now expect the Toulouse Declaration to be translated into a structured dialogue and concrete policy action. Industry is already transitioning to a decarbonised future through improvements in aircraft and engine technologies, the development of sustainable aviation fuels, improvements in air traffic management and aircraft operations, as well as through efficient economic measures. An effective policy, regulatory and financial framework is needed at European and national level to support and accelerate this transformation. The Destination 2050 partners therefore call on the European Commission and EU Member States who have signed today’s Declaration to develop and support as a next step an EU Pact for Aviation Decarbonisation. In this Pact, Member States and the Commission should commit toa structured dialogue with industryto review and complement the Fit for 55 legislative package with concrete and timely supportive measures, including:

  • Public and private funding to channel investments, R&D and innovation into decarbonisation and a more sustainable aviation ecosystem — including through European partnerships such as the Alliance for Zero Emission Aviation, Alliance for Renewable and Low Carbon Fuels Value Chain, Clean Aviation, Clean Hydrogen and SESAR Joint Undertakings — and by including relevant aviation activities into the EU taxonomy for sustainable finance;
  • Initiatives and incentives for:
    • Earmarking of revenues from ETS to support concrete decarbonisation activities within the civil aviation sector;
    • More sustainable airport infrastructure, operations and related services including through Airport Carbon Accreditation;
    • Public incentives for the deployment of sustainable aviation fuels;
    • Fleet renewal coupled with aircraft retirement, and for bringing zero-emission aircraft to the market by 2035 — including through the supply of green hydrogen and electricity (and its deployment via related airport infrastructure);
    • A more sustainable, network-centric, modern and digital Air Traffic Management system through the Single European Sky and SESAR.

Beyond Europe: Stepping up global ambition & action

The Declaration’s supporters have also committed to working with the UN’s International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) towards the adoption of an ambitious “long-term aspirational goal” (LTAG) for aviation which is consistent with efforts to reach net zero CO2 emissions in 2050. The adoption of such a goal would take place during ICAO’s 41st Assembly in September 2022.

Aviation is a global business, and a strong global framework should be established and put into action to enable aviation’s decarbonisation to happen on an international scale, matching Europe’s ambition while at the same time preserving a level playing field and international competitiveness. 

For more information, visit www.destination2050.eu


1 Airlines for Europe (A4E), Airports Council International Europe (ACI EUROPE); European Aeronautics, Space, Defence and Security Industries Association (ASD); European Regions Airline Association (ERA); Civil Air Navigation Services Organisation (CANSO)

2 See Destination 2050 and Waypoint 2050

ENDS

About ACI EUROPE (Airports Council International)

ACI EUROPE is the European region of Airports Council International (ACI), the only worldwide professional association of airport operators. ACI EUROPE represents over 500 airports in 55 countries. Our members facilitate over 90% of commercial air traffic in Europe. Air transport supports 13.5 million jobs, generating €886 billion in European economic activity (4.4% of GDP). In response to the Climate Emergency, in June 2019 our members committed to achieving Net Zero carbon emissions for operations under their control by 2050, without offsetting.

About ASD Europe

ASD is the voice of European Aeronautics, Space, Defence and Security Industries, representing over 3,000 companies from 17 European countries with more than 880,000 direct employees. Headquartered in Brussels, ASD actively supports the competitive development of our industries in Europe and worldwide by advocating common positions and providing technical expertise to public institutions and member companies. The European aerospace, defence and security industries are a key enabler of a sustainable, technologically sovereign and resilient Europe. As high technology and strategic domains, they are global drivers of innovation. For more, visit www.asd-europe.org and follow us on Twitter @ASDEurope  

About Airlines for Europe (A4E)

Launched in 2016, Airlines for Europe (A4E) is Europe’s largest airline association, based in Brussels. The organisation advocates on behalf of its members to help shape European aviation policy to the benefit of consumers, ensuring a continued safe and competitive air transport market. A4E is one of the initiators of European aviation’s Destination 2050 decarbonisation roadmap, with a pledge to reach net zero CO2 emissions from all flights within and departing Europe by 2050. In 2019, A4E members carried more than 720 million passengers via a modern fleet of over 3,000 aircraft – accounting for more than 70 per cent of the continent’s journeys. Members with air cargo and mail activities transport more than 5 million tons of goods each year to more than 360 destinations either by freighters or passenger aircraft. Current members include Aegean, airBaltic, Air France-KLM Group, Cargolux, easyJet, Finnair, Icelandair, International Airlines Group (IAG), Jet2.com, Lufthansa Group, Norwegian, Ryanair Holdings, Smartwings, TAP Air Portugal, TUI and Volotea.  Follow us on Twitter @A4Europe. 

About Civil Air Navigation Services Organisation (CANSO)

The Civil Air Navigation Services Organisation (CANSO) is the global voice of air traffic management worldwide. CANSO Members support almost 90 percent of world air traffic. Members share information and develop new policies, with the ultimate aim of improving air navigation services on the ground and in the air. CANSO represents its Members’ views in major regulatory and industry forums, including at ICAO, where it has official Observer status. CANSO has an extensive network of Associate Members drawn from across the aviation industry. For more, visit www.canso.org.

About European Regions Airline Association (ERA)

Founded in 1980, European Regions Airline Association (ERA) is a non-profit trade association representing over 60 airlines and around 150 companies involved in European air transport and is the only association representing the entire spectrum of companies involved in European aviation. The association promotes the interests of European airlines by lobbying European regulatory bodies on policy matters, promoting the social and economic importance of air transport and its environmental commitments.

Media Contacts

ACI Europe

Virginia Lee, Director of Media and Communications

Email: virginia.lee@aci-europe.org

Phone: +32 2 552 09 82

ASD

Adrian Schmitz, Communications Director
Email: adrian.schmitz@asd-europe.org
Phone: +32 473 13 33 30

A4E

Jennifer Janzen, Communications Director
Email: Jennifer.Janzen@a4e.eu
Phone: +32 499 82 82 94

CANSO

Johnny Pring, Manager Europe Policy and Advocacy
Email: johnny.pring@canso.org
Phone: +32 493 53 61 24

ERA

Paula Bangle, General Manager Business Development & Communications
Email: paula.bangle@eraa.org
Phone: +44 1276 485558

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COP 26: Europe’s aviation sector calls for wider adoption of decarbonisation objectives to be agreed at ICAO 2022 Assembly

Statement from Johan Lundgren, CEO of easyJet and Chairman of Airlines for Europe on behalf of Destination 2050 partners at COP26

Glasgow, 12 November 2021 – “In February this year, Europe’s aviation industry set out a path for meaningful CO2 emissions reductions by 2030 and by 2050. Our Destination 2050 roadmap – endorsed at the highest level by Europe’s airlines, airports, aerospace manufacturers and air navigation service providers – has set out our decarbonisation commitments in clear terms: building on the Paris Agreement and the European Green Deal, it sees all flights within and departing the EU, UK and EFTA realising net zero CO2 emissions by 2050.


Our sector is by nature a global one, so we encourage others to follow suit. Alongside regional measures, a strong global framework should be established and put into action to enable aviation’s decarbonisation to happen on a global scale and match our ambition in Europe.


Europe’s air transport sector strongly supports and encourages the wider adoption of ambitious decarbonisation objectives and related long-term actions by all countries and regions, including those to be agreed at a global level at the next ICAO assembly in 2022.”


About Destination 2050
Europe’s aviation sector is collectively on board to lead the way in reducing aviation CO2 emissions by 2030 and 2050 — making flying more sustainable for the long term. In February 2021, Europe’s airlines, airports, aerospace manufacturers and air navigation service providers laid out a joint long-term vision along with concrete solutions to the complex challenge of reaching net zero CO2 emissions from all flights departing the EU, UK and EFTA by 2050. The independent report by the Royal Netherlands Aerospace Centre (NLR) and SEO Amsterdam Economics shows how a combination of actions from all stakeholders – including the EU and national governments – in four key areas could achieve substantial CO2 emissions reductions in line with EU climate goals. These include: Improvements in aircraft and engine technologies (including hybrid, electric and hydrogen propulsion), using sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs) both for fixed- and rotary-wing platforms, implementing economic measures and improvements in air traffic management (ATM) and aircraft operations. For more information, visit www.destination2050.eu