Air transport is global: it has enabled an incredible expansion in relations between peoples. It intends to be sustainable in the face of the climate challenge and is aiming for carbon neutrality by 2050.

Decarbonising aviation involves 4 levers: (a) a sharp reduction in aircraft fuel consumption; (b) the use of alternative fuels to kerosene; (c) carbon capture and storage to “neutralise” emissions from the remaining fossil kerosene; (d) sobriety.

The result of two years’ work by the Energy and Environment Commission (C2E), comprising more than 60 members from eight European countries with collective expertise in the fields of climate, energy and aeronautics, Opinion No. 20 turns the spotlight on the ways and means of decarbonising air transport, in particular on reducing consumption but also on the considerable energy requirements.

A more detailed Dossier No.55 will out the thinking behind this Opinion.