BA parent IAG boss Willie Walsh has called on all governments to back a UN plan for cutting CO2 emissions in aviation.
The demand came as Walsh revealed BA will itself look to reduce its own carbon dioxide emissions by 8.5%.
The UN’s International Civil Aviation Organisation (Icao) has produced a proposal for the sector that could lead to a global deal on emissions.
Walsh said a target set by the sector of reducing emissions by 50% by 2050 will only be met if governments adopt the Icao plan.
Aviation ministers will meet in Montreal this October for the organisation’s annual assembly where they will discuss a mandatory CO2 emissions cutting programme.
Walsh said: “A fair, uniform system will give aviation a clear and direct financial incentive to develop cleaner aircraft, switch to low-carbon fuels and introduce more efficient air traffic systems that eradicate unnecessary flying.
“No other industry has anything like as comprehensive a scheme for reducing its global CO2 footprint.
“A global deal for aviation carbon emissions is the only way we can continue to grow our industry sustainably to meet demand.
“This is a once in a generation opportunity to develop an effective global scheme. We must grasp the opportunity now.”