On Monday, Aerospace Industries Association (AIA) announced that aviation manufacturers have made a commitment to work with airline customers and governments around the world to get to net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
As part of that commitment, the association will commission a study to analyze the state of sustainable aviation technologies in the U.S. and identify public policies and investments that are needed to achieve the aviation manufacturers’ goals.
“Innovation is at the heart of what we do as an industry and what will enable a more sustainable aviation future,” Eric Fanning, president and CEO of AIA, said. “While strong progress has been made in the energy efficiency of aircraft, we have the opportunity now to make investments in next-generation technology that will propel the industry into a brighter, greener future. Committing to net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 isn’t just a pledge to secure a more sustainable aviation ecosystem, it is a testament to the confidence we have in our industry’s ability to innovate.”
Representing more than 320 manufacturers and suppliers across the aerospace and defense (A&D) industries, the association said that its commitment is the latest development in A&D energy efficiency. Since 1978, U.S. aircraft energy efficiency has improved by 130 percent. The industry accounts for an estimated 2 percent of human-produced CO2 emissions.
Advancements in aviation have led to the development of sustainable aviation fuel, hybrid-electric propulsion and advanced aircraft technology and modernization, the association said.
AIA said its commitment to net-zero emissions joins pledges from U.S. airlines and the industry association Airlines for America.