Airports Council International (ACI) World has expressed its satisfaction as a coalition of aviation stakeholders coalesce on climate action.

A joint declaration released today via the Air Transport Action Group (ATAG) commits the industry to adopting a 2050 goal of net zero carbon emissions.

It has attracted signatories from major aviation associations, including ACI World, International Airport Transport Association (IATA), International Business Aviation Council (IBAC) and others.

The world’s largest aircraft and engine manufacturers such as Airbus, Boeing and Embraer have also inked their support.

‘CHALLENGING ROAD AHEAD’

ACI World itself made a commitment to the goal earlier this year.

“We are thrilled to see the aviation sector united in reaching this goal,” said ACI World Director General Luis Felipe de Oliveira. “ACI member airports, who committed in June 2021 to reaching net zero by 2050 for their own emissions, will be key players in facilitating this transition so the aviation system can continue to deliver economic and social benefits to the world.

“We look forward to collaborating with governments and the wider aviation community to help deliver these goals.”

The goal will be supported by accelerated efficiency measures and energy transition, and innovation across the industry and in partnership with governments.

This includes supporting new aircraft technologies such as hydrogen and electric, increased production and uptake of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) and carbon removal measures.

“The road ahead will be challenging but aviation is no stranger to challenges,” added Oliveira. “This historic declaration shows the determination of the sector to work together to take this important climate action. It is now imperative that governments support these efforts to make this vital sector sustainable.

“This makes it all the more urgent that member states of the International Civil Aviation Organization support the adoption of a long-term climate goal at the 41^st ICAO Assembly in 2022.”

For more on aviation’s ‘Commitment to Fly Net Zero’, click here.

To read the joint declaration, click here.