- 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 5% in 2004-2005 alone.
IATA Fuel Efficiency Goal
In 2000 IATA airlines adopted a voluntary goal and committed to improving their fuel efficiency by 10% between 2000 and 2010. The saving in CO2 emissions will be almost 350 million tonnes compared to if fuel efficiency stayed at the 2000 level. IATA airlines are on track to beat this goal and are planning to develop a more ambitious one.
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.
Alternative Fuels
The industry is actively considering potential alternative fuels including the use of synthetic fuel blends and biofuels in the medium term. Hydrogen is being explored for application in fuel cells and might become an option for aircraft engines from 2050, although significant design and infrastructure changes would be required. Safety always remains the top priority.
See also:
Climate Change
Local Air Quality
Environmental Review 2004, part 3, "Confronting climate change"