As global attention intensifies around climate action, the aviation sector finds itself under increasing scrutiny. A recent webinar, hosted by the IETs Aerospace TN, brought together experts Andrew Chadwick and Andy Reynolds to explore the urgent need to decarbonise aviation—a sector that remains a significant contributor to global CO₂ emissions and climate warming.
Despite the temporary dip in emissions during the pandemic, aviation activity has now rebounded to near pre-COVID levels, with demand expected to rise further. This trajectory makes the case for decarbonisation not just compelling, but critical.
Strategies for a Cleaner Sky
The speakers outlined a multi-pronged approach to reducing aviation’s carbon footprint:
- Aircraft Efficiency: Enhancing design and operational performance to reduce fuel consumption.
- Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF): Transitioning to low-carbon alternatives, though availability and cost remain major hurdles.
- Hydrogen & Electric Propulsion: Promising technologies like Airbus’s ZeroE project are exploring fuel cell systems and liquid hydrogen storage, though infrastructure and supply chains must catch up.
- Airspace Optimisation: Smarter routing and traffic management can yield immediate emissions reductions.
Policy & Public Perception
Government frameworks such as the UK’s Jet Zero strategy and SAF mandates are helping steer the industry, but progress is uneven. Public acceptance and safety standards are also key—especially as new aircraft types like air taxis and drones enter the conversation.
The webinar emphasised that smaller electric and hydrogen aircraft could play a role in short-haul and urban mobility, but their success hinges on thoughtful infrastructure planning and regulatory support.
Collaboration is Key
Perhaps the most resounding message was the need for cross-sector collaboration. Governments, industry players, airports, and technology providers must work together to fund innovation, align policies, and accelerate deployment.
The Q&A session delved into complex topics such as emissions from aircraft manufacturing, alternative fuels like ammonia, hydrogen safety, and international policy comparisons—highlighting the multifaceted nature of the challenge.
A Shared Journey Towards Sustainability
Decarbonising aviation is not a one-size-fits-all endeavour. It demands a blend of innovation, investment, and international cooperation. As the sector charts its course toward net zero, webinars like this serve as vital platforms for knowledge-sharing and collective action.
Watch the whole event here
