WTTC & IATA Call for Global Push to Decarbonize Flights

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), the International Air Transport Association (IATA), and the governments of Japan and Malaysia have jointly called for stronger global cooperation to help international aviation reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

The coalition stressed that achieving this goal requires coordinated action from governments, regulators, and industry leaders. Aviation remains one of the most challenging sectors to decarbonize, and without unified policies, global emissions will continue to rise as travel demand increases.

A central focus of the joint statement is the need for a consistent global regulatory framework, led by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), which is responsible for setting technical standards and managing the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA), which is projected to generate more than $120 billion from 2024 to 2035.

These funds will support sustainable aviation projects, including cleaner fuels, carbon reduction programs, and industry-wide research efforts.

IATA reiterated its commitment to sustainability, noting that progress depends on accelerating the adoption of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF), improving flight operations, modernizing air traffic systems, and developing next-generation aircraft technologies.

This year, airlines have started to increase their investments accordingly. American Airlines and Alaska Airlines recently launched a $150 million fund intended to fast-track new sustainable aviation technologies. Meanwhile, Hawaiian Airlines plans to introduce SAF on select flights, and British Airways signed a multi-year SAF supply deal with EcoCeres.

However, overall progress has been slower than needed, partly due to limited investment in SAF and other clean technologies. The aviation sector is urging governments to match their climate commitments with targeted policy support, financial incentives, and long-term programs that can help accelerate the transition to greener travel.

Photo by Divyadarshi Acharya on Unsplash