New technology aircraft and jet fuel made from waste: the global air transport 
industry has outlined how to meet its new long-term climate goal during 
Transport Day events at the UN COP26 in Glasgow. This confirms the commitment 
of the world's airlines, airports, air traffic management and the makers of 
aircraft and engines [ http://www.aviationbenefits.org/FlyNetZero ] to net-zero 
carbon emissions by 2050, in support of the Paris Agreement. Aviation is one of 
the only sectors to have made such a global commitment.

Analysis detailed in the Waypoint 2050 [ http://www.aviationbenefits.org/W2050 
]report outlines credible paths for the air transport sector to reach net-zero 
carbon. The industry says a mix of new technology including potentially 
shifting to electricity and hydrogen for some shorter services; improvements in 
operations and infrastructure; and a transition to sustainable aviation fuel by 
mid-century would provide a majority of the carbon reductions. Remaining 
emissions could be captured using carbon removals measures.

Speaking at a COP26 event with the UK Government today, Haldane Dodd, Acting 
Executive Director of the Air Transport Action Group said: "Aviation has 
increased its ambition in line with the need for all sectors of the economy to 
pursue rigorous climate action. Despite having endured the greatest crisis in 
aviation history, this net-zero 2050 goal shows that our sector has placed 
climate action as one of its highest priorities."

A complete shift away from fossil fuels for air transport around mid-century 
would be possible, with sustainable aviation fuels made from waste resources 
and rotational cover crops gradually transitioning towards fuels generated from 
low-carbon electricity. Importantly, the shift to sustainable fuels will enable 
green energy industry opportunities in nearly every country, sustaining up to 
14 million jobs worldwide.

"Our analysis shows several scenarios, with new technology options such as 
electric and hydrogen aircraft for the short-haul fleet, to a complete shift to 
sustainable aviation fuel for medium- and long-haul operations. We have 
identified the building blocks needed and the scale of the challenge is 
substantial, but with supportive government policy and the backing of the 
energy sector, it can be done."

"National government policy measures focused on innovation and energy 
transition are vital. We also urge the member states of the International Civil 
Aviation Organization (ICAO) to support adoption of a long-term climate goal at 
the 41st ICAO Assembly in 2022, in line with industry commitments."
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Source: Air Transport Action Group