The aim is to mix technology such as operational efficiency gains, sustainable aviation fuels (SAF), and a global market-based approach known as the ICAO Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA)
FREMONT, CA: According to Subhas Menon, director general of the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA), they see light at the end of the tunnel, as more and more countries are developing plans to reopen their borders while also appreciating the need for sustainability for airlines. At a media conference on the 65th AAPA Assembly of Presidents, held virtually on November 12, he expressed the optimism of the association's member airlines, despite ongoing sluggish international air passenger demand for the region's carriers. The airlines reaffirmed their commitment to working with governments and industry partners to accomplish the goal of decreasing carbon emissions to net zero by 2050 and facilitating the timely restoration of international air travel by 2022 in the declaration released at the close of the assembly. AAPA set a goal of net zero emissions by 2050 in September, which is a more ambitious target than the current industry promise of halving carbon emissions by 2050. Menon believes that the target may be met by a mix of technology, operational efficiency gains, sustainable aviation fuels (SAF), and a global market-based strategy known as the ICAO Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation.
He admitted that, while the aviation industry is committed to lowering its carbon impact in a responsible manner, there are obstacles to overcome. When compared to other locations, Asia Pacific (APAC) has significantly less facilities for generating SAF. Taxes, onerous regulations, and other penalties would just raise the expense of travel while providing no environmental benefit. Government incentives and investment, on the other hand, would help to accelerate the development of sustainable fuels and new energy sources, bolstering the industry's efforts to reach carbon neutrality by 2050. He urged governments to fully support CORSIA's global adoption as the single most effective strategy for reducing emissions in international aviation. This will allow the aviation industry to grow in a sustainable way, in line with the aim to net zero emissions.
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