- New aircraft are 70% more fuel efficient than 40 years ago and 20% better than 10 years ago.
- Airlines are aiming for a further 25% fuel efficiency improvement by 2020.
- Modern aircraft achieve fuel efficiencies of 3.5 litres per 100 passenger km.
- The A380 and B787 are aiming for 3 litres per 100 passenger km – better than a compact car!
Less Fuel = Less Emissions
Aircraft engine emissions are directly related to fuel burn. Each kilogram of fuel saved reduces carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by 3.16 kg. So the key for airlines to minimise their environmental impact is to use fuel more efficiently. IATA airlines improved their fuel efficiency by 3.1% in 2006 and 2007.
IATA Fuel Efficiency Goal
IATA airlines have adopted a voluntary fuel efficiency goal. This is to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions (per revenue tonne kilometre) by at least 25% by 2020, compared to 2005 levels.
IATA Fuel Action Campaign
IATA has launched a fuel action campaign and is working with industry partners to reduce fuel requirements and associated emissions.
Improved Fuel Efficiency through Technology
Through gradually incorporating advanced technology into their fleets, airlines have made impressive fuel efficiency improvements.
However, product development cycles are long: around 15-20 years. Plus, most airlines already use advanced technology and processes, making additional fuel efficiency improvements more difficult and expensive.
Potential Fuel Savings from Air Traffic Management
ATM enhancements could improve fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions by up to 12%. IATA therefore calls upon governments, airports and air navigation service providers to implement the necessary infrastructure improvements.
Operational Measures for Improved Fuel Efficiency
The aviation industry has already developed and uses many operational measures to minimise fuel usage. Operational improvements could provide a 6% overall fuel saving.
See also:
Climate Change
Local Air Quality
Environmental Review 2004, part 3, "Confronting climate change"