Aviation decarbonisation set for takeoff

Energy efficiency improvements and use of sustainable aviation fuel seen as key to cutting emissions by 2050

The global aviation industry has a long way to go to meet its commitment to slash carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions to half of 2005 levels by mid-century, let alone its ultimate goal of net-zero emissions. But the industry is optimistic it can achieve deep decarbonisation over the next three decades, Robert Boyd, assistant director and head of sustainable aviation at the Geneva-based trade group the International Air Transport Association (IATA), tells Transition Economist. IATA represents almost 300 airlines worldwide. The industry has been laying the groundwork since 2009, when it was the first to commit to large emission reductions on a global scale, while technological advancement has been