What Did the Recent ICAO Assembly Decide on Aviation Sustainability?

The recent International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Assembly highlighted the urgent need for sustainable aviation practices across the global industry.

This gathering served as a critical stocktaking moment. It reinforced the sector’s commitment to its ambitious environmental targets.

The Long-Term Aspirational Goal (LTAG)

Member States at the ICAO Assembly reaffirmed the long-term aspirational goal (LTAG) of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 for international aviation. This goal was initially adopted at the 41st ICAO Assembly in 2022. It aligns the aviation sector with the broader global climate objective of the Paris Agreement. Achieving this global net-zero emissions target requires comprehensive action. This action includes new cleaner aviation technologies and improved operational efficiency.

Focusing on Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)

Scaling up Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) production is a key pillar of the ICAO strategy. The ICAO Global Framework for SAF was adopted in November 2023. This framework includes a collective global aspirational Vision. The Vision aims to reduce CO2 emissions from international aviation by 5% by 2030. This reduction will be achieved through the use of SAF, Lower Carbon Aviation Fuels (LCAF), and other cleaner energies. The ICAO Assistance, Capacity-building and Training for SAF (ACT-SAF) program supports this transition. It helps developing countries assess their potential for SAF production.

However, the industry faces significant challenges in meeting the SAF target. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has warned about a potential supply shortage. Analysts are concerned that current production levels are insufficient to meet the 2030 goal. This highlights the need for substantial investment from both governments and the private sector. Manufacturers like Airbus are also focusing on aircraft that can operate on 100% SAF.

Implementation of CORSIA

Another central theme of the Assembly was the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA). CORSIA is the primary global market-based measure for reducing environmental impact from international flights.

• Phase 1: The first compliance phase of CORSIA runs from 2024 through 2026.
• Mandatory Compliance: The scheme shifts from voluntary participation to mandatory compliance for most countries starting in 2027.

Supply and Cost Challenges

Implementation, however, faces a critical hurdle: the supply of Eligible Emissions Units (EEUs). Reports indicate a shortage of these units. This shortage is largely due to host states not issuing Letters of Authorisation (LoAs). These letters are necessary to apply corresponding adjustments to national emissions balances. The lack of supply creates a risk of price volatility.

Consultants have warned that international airlines face major increases in operating costs from 2027. This is when the scheme's mandatory phase begins. The industry is urging states to accelerate the issuance of LoAs. This is seen as a necessary step to stabilize the market for carbon credits.

The Aviation Decarbonization Roadmap

The ICAO Assembly underscored that the aviation decarbonization roadmap is a shared responsibility. It requires cooperation among regulators, airlines, airports, and fuel producers. The ICAO Strategic Plan for 2026–2050 sets a clear path. It integrates environmental sustainability with safety and security goals. This focus on sustainable aviation practices ensures the sector's long-term viability. The push for cleaner aviation technologies and market mechanisms like CORSIA will define the industry's future. The commitment to net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 remains the guiding principle.

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