Aviation Industry Urged to Shift to Zero-Emission Aircraft by 2035 for Net Zero by 2050
Key Ideas
  • A new study by the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT) recommends that all new aircraft should be emission-free by 2035 to achieve net zero carbon emissions in the aviation industry by 2050.
  • Manufacturers are urged to invest in lower-emitting aircraft, ensure all new planes can burn 100% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) by 2030, and accelerate the development of zero-emission fuel-powered planes like hydrogen.
  • The study calculates a 'net-zero carbon budget' and warns that without a shift to zero-emission aircraft, the industry's emissions will surpass net zero targets by 2037.
  • While some in the industry view widespread use of zero-emission aircraft as distant, smaller startups like ZeroAvia are leading the way with plans for hydrogen-powered aircraft launching as early as 2025.
A new study by the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT) suggests that the aviation industry needs to prioritize the development and adoption of zero-emission aircraft if it aims to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050. The study outlines the urgency for manufacturers to invest in lower-emitting aircraft and ensure that all new planes are capable of using 100% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) by 2030. Additionally, the study calls for an acceleration in the development of aircraft powered by zero-emission fuels like hydrogen. The ICCT emphasizes that by around 2035, all new aircraft must be free from fossil fuels to stay on track for net zero goals. The study calculates a 'net-zero carbon budget' to determine the allowable carbon emissions by the aviation industry before exceeding net zero targets by 2050. It warns that without a significant shift to zero-emission planes, emissions from the global aircraft fleet will surpass the set budget by 2037. This underscores the critical need for a transition to zero-emission aircraft to meet climate targets. While some industry stakeholders consider widespread use of zero-emission aircraft a distant prospect, smaller companies like ZeroAvia are making strides in developing hydrogen-powered planes. ZeroAvia aims to launch a small hydrogen-powered aircraft by 2025 and a larger model by 2029. This highlights the potential for innovative solutions from smaller startups to drive the industry towards sustainability. The study's recommendations challenge the industry's current trajectory and highlight the need for swift action to combat carbon emissions. By shifting towards zero-emission aircraft and investing in sustainable aviation fuel, the aviation sector can work towards achieving a greener and more sustainable future.
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