Eurocontrol Aviation Long Term Outlook: Navigating Towards Net-Zero by 2050
Key Ideas
  • Eurocontrol predicts a 52% increase in flights in Europe by 2050 compared to 2023, reaching 15.4 million flights, driven by commitments to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
  • The pathway to net-zero involves key enablers such as fleet renewal with fuel-efficient aircraft, development of electric and hydrogen-powered planes, and modernization of operations and infrastructure.
  • Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAFs) are crucial, with a need for scaled-up production and cost evolution, aiming to contribute to a 33% reduction in carbon emissions by 2050.
  • Out-of-sector measures will be necessary to bridge the remaining gap to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, emphasizing market-based measures, carbon offsetting, and carbon capture.
Eurocontrol's Aviation Long Term Outlook anticipates significant growth in European aviation, with a projected 15.4 million flights by 2050, a 52% increase over 2023 levels. Despite challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the industry is committed to achieving net-zero CO2 emissions by 2050, aligning with European and International Civil Aviation objectives. To reach this ambitious goal, key strategies include the development of Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAFs), fleet and technology enhancements, and modernizing airports and air traffic management operations. The report highlights the importance of financial incentives and regulatory frameworks for industry compliance. Fleet renewal with fuel-efficient aircraft, adoption of electric and hydrogen-powered planes, and innovation in operations and infrastructure are vital for sustainability. Sustainable Aviation Fuels are identified as a promising solution, with a targeted 33% reduction in carbon emissions by 2050. Additionally, out-of-sector measures like market-based initiatives and carbon offsetting will play a crucial role in bridging the emissions gap towards net-zero. Eurocontrol's forecast underscores the industry's determination to navigate towards a sustainable future in aviation.
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