10 Airline Sustainability Leaders On Their Pathways To Net-Zero

January 19, 2023

The need to decarbonise quickly and effectively has taken centre stage as the world approaches a climate crisis. Travel – specifically aviation – is in the crosshairs for its outsize contribution to global CO2 emissions.

While the industry might argue that it accounts for “only about 3%” of emissions, context is key: 1% of the world’s population accounts for more than half of flying emissions.

The good news, however, is that the industry recognises the need for swift course correction. But due to its sheer nature, aviation will chart a complex path to decarbonisation.

We spoke to leaders from 10 very different airlines to understand how they are moving towards the 2050 net-zero target.

Featuring Etihad Airways, JetBlue, British Airways, easyJet, Alaska Airlines, Ryanair, Aeromexico, Avianca, SriLankan Airlines, and Saudia, our special report illuminates the various pathways to sustainability these airlines are adopting – you can read it for free here.

What all airline sustainability leaders recognise about a net-zero journey

The challenge is immense

Airlines admit that the challenge is much tougher than in almost every other industry since the only effective solution is likely to be a new kind of emission-less plane that might be decades away.

The promise of Sustainable Aviation Fuel

They recognise Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) as the likely saviour. Almost all airlines want more of it. However, supply and price appear to be insurmountable challenges in the near future.

Cooperation is important

While airlines may be at different stages of their sustainability journey, they understand that – for once – going green is not merely a competitive differentiator but a societal good that the industry must cooperate towards.

Economic viability is a major concern

If it comes to a choice between reducing carbon emissions at a high cost and staying afloat, airlines will understandably choose the latter. Hundreds of thousands of livelihoods depend on the industry. It cannot be shut down or wished away.

Organisation-wide change is required

Airlines are awakening to the reality that sustainability efforts, knowledge and consciousness must permeate through the entire organisation. The right momentum for change arises when there is complete buy-in and support at all tiers of the company.

Read the full ‘Flying to Net Zero’ report for free here.