Air New Zealand is first major airline to scrap 2030 emissions target
Firm says it is now re-adjusting to a realistic end date and blames difficulties in procuring new planes and sustainable jet fuel
The airline’s CEO, Greg Foran said: “In recent months, and more so in the last few weeks, it has also become apparent that potential delays to our fleet renewal plan pose an additional risk to the target’s achievability.
“It is possible the airline may need to retain its existing fleet for longer than planned due to global manufacturing and supply chain issues that could potentially slow the introduction of newer, more fuel-efficient aircraft into the fleet.”
The industry as a whole has a goal to achieve net zero emissions by 2050. But in 2022, Air New Zealand set itself the target of cutting its emissions by almost 29% by 2030. The company said it is now re-adjusting this figure to be more realistic, taking into account the lack of sustainable fuel options and new planes.
Mile for mile, flying is the most carbon-emitting way to travel, but as about 10% of the world travels by plane in an average year, the aviation industry is responsible for about 2.5% of global emissions.
