The Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) members have committed to net zero carbon emissions by 2050.
AAPA members are full-service airlines based in South East Asia, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan and Hong Kong.
"It is a challenging goal, but we are committed to this," said AAPA Director General Subhas Menon in a presentation.
Menon stated that the target could be met through fuel efficiency improvements, operations and infrastructure initiatives, carbon offsets and promoting sustainable aviation fuels. However, the long-term goal is highly dependent on contributions from all stakeholders: Governments, Airports, ANSP, Manufacturers, FIN Sector, Fuel Suppliers.
The AAPA Pathway is based on four pillars for emissions reductions to underline commitment:
o Fuel efficiency improvements through technology enhancement
o Operations and infrastructure initiatives
o Promoting commercialisation of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF)
o Market-based measures: CORSIA (offsetting scheme in international aviation)
SAF forms a critical part of industry strategy. AAPA pledges support to efforts to commercialise SAF & ensure adequate cost-effective supply, and also calls for government and stakeholder support in the form of subsidies and R&D, resources for feedstock & facilities and the development of production & supply chain. AAPA estimates that Asia Pacific requires 40% of global SAF requirement but notes a lack of SAF investment and facilities in the region.
AAPA also refered to additional measures to attain its targets, including investing in new technologies such as direct carbon capture and sequestration; and working with ICAO and Member States to forge and sustain global consensus on long-term goals.
Some AAPA members including Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific Airways, Japan Airlines and ANA Holdings have already announced plans for net zero emissions by 2050.