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Decarbonizing Aviation: Challenges and Levers

Reading 4 min

February 4, 2025

Summary

Decarbonizing aviation aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through sustainable fuels, innovative technologies, and optimized operations. While this transition poses challenges, it offers opportunities for a more environmentally friendly aviation that is aligned with global climate goals.

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décarbonation aviation

What is decarbonizing aviation?

Decarbonizing aviation brings together all actions aimed at reducing GHG emissions generated by the aviation sector, which represents nearly 3% of emissions worldwide. The objective is to limit the climate impact of aviation while meeting the growing requirements of international regulations and passenger expectations for more environmentally friendly transport. This transition is essential to align aviation with global carbon neutrality objectives.

Strategic levers for decarbonizing aviation

Development of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF)

Sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) represent a key alternative to reduce CO2 emissions in the aviation sector. Produced from renewable raw materials such as waste oils, agricultural waste or algae, SAFs can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80% compared to traditional fossil fuels. Compatible with current engines, they do not require major modifications to existing infrastructure.

Designing lighter and more efficient aircraft

Designing lighter and more efficient aircraft is essential to reducing aviation’s carbon footprint. The use of advanced materials such as carbon fibre composites reduces the weight of aircraft, thereby reducing their fuel consumption. Advances in aerodynamics, with optimised wings and more efficient engines, also contribute to greater energy efficiency. These innovations make it possible to limit emissions while maintaining or improving performance.

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Transition to hydrogen and electrification

The transition to hydrogen and electrification also offers promising solutions for decarbonising aviation. Hydrogen aircraft, powered by fuel cells or hydrogen combustion engines, can significantly reduce CO2 emissions. In addition, electrification, especially for short flights, helps limit direct emissions. These technologies require massive investments in research, development and infrastructure, such as charging and storage systems. Although still in the experimental phase, they represent a major step towards zero-carbon aviation.

Optimizing routes and operational performance

Optimizing routes and operational performance is also a lever for reducing aviation’s carbon footprint. By using advanced digital tools and modern navigation systems, airlines can plan shorter and more fuel-efficient routes. In addition, practices such as efficient on-board weight management, reducing ground waiting times and optimizing takeoff and landing phases reduce energy consumption.

Carbon Offsetting and Capture Technologies

Carbon offsetting and capture technologies play a complementary role in the decarbonization of aviation. Airlines invest in reforestation, ecosystem preservation or renewable energy projects to offset their residual emissions. In addition, carbon capture and storage (CCUS) allows CO2 to be captured directly from the atmosphere or aircraft engines. While these solutions do not replace direct reductions, they offer additional tools to achieve climate goals while accelerating the transition to more sustainable aviation.

The Benefits and Challenges of Decarbonizing Aviation

Decarbonizing aviation offers significant benefits, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions, complying with climate regulations, and improving airlines’ image among travelers and investors. It also stimulates technological innovation and job creation in sectors related to renewable energy and low-carbon technologies.

However, this transition poses major challenges. The high costs of sustainable fuels (SAF) and the necessary infrastructure, as well as the development of new technologies such as hydrogen, require massive investments. Finally, coordination between industry players and governments is essential to overcome obstacles and accelerate this transition.

How to accelerate the transition to decarbonized aviation?

To accelerate the decarbonization of aviation, it is essential to strengthen public policies, such as the establishment of quotas on emissions or tax incentives for sustainable fuels (SAF). In addition, the development of hydrogen infrastructure and the electrification of aircraft can be prioritized. Investments in research and technological innovation are also crucial to design low-carbon solutions. Finally, raising awareness among travelers about the environmental impact of flights can encourage more responsible choices.

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