3 Steps Airlines Could Take to Slash Emissions by 50%

Key Points

• A study found airlines could cut emissions by up to 50% by eliminating premium seats, using newer aircraft, and maximizing seat occupancy.
• Reliance on sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) alone is insufficient, as current SAF supply is extremely limited and unlikely to meet future demand.
• U.S. flights are significantly less efficient than the global average, with major airports like Atlanta and New York lagging behind in emissions efficiency.

Summary

A new study suggests airlines could immediately halve their carbon emissions by eliminating premium seating, flying newer planes, and ensuring fuller flights. This approach shifts focus away from sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), which currently represents a tiny portion of jet fuel and is unlikely to scale fast enough to meet industry climate targets. The research also highlights that U.S. flights are notably less efficient than global averages, due in part to older aircraft, air traffic issues, and lower seat occupancy, while industry demand for premium seating is rising despite its negative impact on emissions.