WASHINGTON, D.C. — The FAA and its counterparts in other nations around the world have agreed to reduce greenhouse emissions by improving aviation fuel efficiency 2% a year starting in 2012 and continuing until 2050. The goal is to reach a greater than 60% improvement in emissions over that period. Each nation will approach the issue as it sees fit.
The FAA says it is already looking at several possibilities. NextGen, the advanced air traffic system, is expected to help. Alternative fuels are another possibility. Over the years, expect more changes affecting propulsion and other areas.
The agreement, reached at a meeting in Montreal of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), was “a significant milestone for the aviation sector in addressing its contribution to greenhouse gas emissions,” said Nancy LoBue, FAA acting administrator for policy and environment.
ICAO called for all states to report on air transportation traffic and fuel consumption, which will allow the organization to monitor progress toward the goal.
Charles Spence is GAN’s Washington, D.C., correspondent.