Europe’s aviation leaders call on the European Commission to develop an Aviation Strategy focused on sustainability, competitiveness, and net zero goals, highlighting urgent policy actions needed.

Europe’s aviation sector has called on European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to develop an Aviation Strategy that supports the industry’s economic role and transition to net zero, in line with Mario Draghi’s recommendations. Airlines, airports, air navigation providers, and the civil aeronautics industry have outlined policy recommendations alongside an update to Destination 2050 – A Route to Net Zero European Aviation.

The report highlights the urgency of action, showing net zero can be achieved through advancements in aircraft and engine technologies, Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), optimised air traffic management, and economic measures, with SAF and aircraft technology delivering 83% of emissions reductions by 2050.

Details of the report

To support these efforts, the European Commission must:

• Implement an EU industrial strategy for SAF, with mechanisms to reduce costs rapidly.
• Ensure the Clean Industrial Deal and the Sustainable Transport Investment Plan (STIP) reflect aviation’s strategic importance.
• Support research and innovation to improve fuel efficiency, including Clean Aviation for new aircraft technologies and SESAR for air traffic management.

“With efficient EU policy measures, we can secure aviation’s vital and strategic importance and continue driving social and economic progress throughout Europe. The new Destination 2050 report shows that the European aviation industry has a clear and actionable pathway to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050, but urgent action must happen now.

“It is critical the European Commission delivers an Aviation Strategy this year, grounded in decarbonisation and maintaining competitiveness. It must seize the opportunity to place aviation at the centre of the Clean Industrial Deal and Sustainable Transport Investment Plan, while simplifying the regulatory burden and ensuring a supportive regulatory and investment framework.

“There’s not a moment to lose and acting today will ensure a strong, competitive and more sustainable aviation industry for tomorrow,” the Chairs of A4E, ACI EUROPE, ASD, CANSO Europe, and ERA said.

Read the full report here.