Cleaner Aircraft
Thanks to technological progress, aircraft emissions around airports are generally low. Since the 1960s, levels of carbon monoxide have come down by 50% and unburned hydrocarbons and smoke by around 90%. Research is targeting a further 80% reduction in nitrogen oxide emissions (NOx) by 2020.
Our industry is also making substantial investments in cleaner ground support equipment and vehicles to improve local air quality.
Stricter Emission Certification Standards
NOx, unburned hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide and smoke are subject to international standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
ICAO has increased the stringency limit for NOx several times - by 20% in 1993 and by around 16% in 1999, compared to 1981 levels. A new standard was endorsed in 2004, applicable to new engines from 2008. It is 12% lower than the previous standard and will provide a 40% reduction compared to the first standard.
Airline Efforts Should Be Matched by Others
Aircraft are not the only or even the main source of local emissions around airports. Their contribution is relatively small compared to emissions from road traffic and other ground activities. Therefore, all sources must be considered in order to reduce total emissions. Measures should include, for instance, clean and efficient surface access to airports.
Airports can also make a difference by implementing measures such as optimising the airport design to reduce taxiiing times; providing cleaner ground service equipment and vehicles and using energy efficient systems for heating and lighting.
See also:
Environmental Review 2004, part 2, "Caring about air quality".