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The aviation sector is joining forces with business and government groups with a commitment to tackle climate change.
The pledge between the International Civil Aviation Organisation and the aviation industry represented by the Air Transport Action Group came at the United Nations Climate Summit in New York.
The agreement was co-signed by Iata, Airports Council International, Civil Air Navigation Services Organisation, International Co-ordinating Council of Aerospace Industries Associations and International Business Aviation Council – representing the various components of the international air transport industry.
The partnership expands on work already being carried out across the air transport sector to reduce emissions.
Aviation operations produce around 2% of human CO2 emissions, a figure set to increase as more people travel by air, particularly in emerging economies.
However, aviation industry organisations have committed to reducing net air transport CO2 emissions by 2050 to half of what they were in 2005.
Iata director general and chief executive Tony Tyler said: ”The UN Climate Summit reminds us that we must work in partnerships to ensure a sustainable future.
“The aviation industry has big ambitions. The immediate challenge is to cap net emissions with carbon neutral growth from 2020. And by 2050 we want to cut net emissions to half of what they were in 2005.
”We will meet these goals through new technology, improved operational efficiency, and better infrastructure.
“But we also need governments to agree a global market-based measure which can tackle aviation emissions. By working as partners across the industry, and with governments, we will deliver a sustainable future for aviation.”
Atag executive director Michael Gill said: “Today’s announcement builds on the collaborative action taking place across the commercial aviation sector.
“It is impressive to see all parts of the industry working with each other, and with partners in research, government and other sectors to deliver the climate actions we have committed to as an industry.
“Aviation is a force for good in the world, supporting economies, fostering tourism and allowing global cultural exchange. We believe that we can continue to deliver these benefits to the world whilst also addressing our climate impacts.”