CAA outlines plan for publishing flight emissions data

The aviation regulator has stepped up efforts to ensure airline passengers can access “clear, consistent and accurate” emissions data about the flights they book.  

The Civil Aviation Authority published a new framework setting out guidance and principles on the information airlines and other booking organisations should provide to passengers.  

The aim is to enable consumers to make more informed travel choices.

The CAA said: “In time, when passengers look to book flights with those who sell and advertise flights which depart or arrive from UK airports information such as the amount of carbon that would be emitted by their flight should be available.    

“This information, which is already available on some flight comparison websites and in other sectors such as rail, should be standardised and comparable.” 

The framework, described as an “important milestone” in efforts to support the UK’s transition to net zero follows a consultation held in 2024 and builds on an earlier call for evidence in the previous year.   

The CAA expects that organisations will have had sufficient time to adopt this guidance by April 2027

The authority will be reviewing flight booking providers – including applicable airlines, travel agents and flight comparison websites - after this date, and reporting on progress.   

The aim of the framework is to:  

• Present emissions information in a clear and consistent format to passengers at the point of booking; 
• Encourage improved transparency in the aviation sector, based on real and up to date data reflecting factors like aircraft type, seat choice and fuel use;  
• Support the industry in its wider efforts toward achieving net-zero emissions, with room for innovation and insights to improve the data as science evolves; and
• Provide a list of preferred methodologies for travel providers to calculate emissions information for consumers.

CAA director Tim Johnson said: “Airlines providing understandable and comparable emissions data will enable passengers to make more informed travel decisions. 

“We encourage all airlines and travel companies that advertise or sell flights in the UK which depart from or arrive at UK airports to follow this guidance."