- Air New Zealand on Tuesday backed away from its 2030 climate targets, citing delays to deliveries of more fuel-efficient aircraft and the rising price of alternative jet fuel.
- The announcement reflects the scale of the challenge for the industry to meet decarbonization targets.
- Air New Zealand has also confirmed its intention to withdraw from the Science Based Targets initiative with immediate effect.
An Air New Zealand plane was spotted during the second match of the women’s ODI series between New Zealand and Pakistan at Hagley Oval in Christchurch, New Zealand on December 15, 2023.
Kai Schwoerer | Getty Images Sports | Getty Images
Air New Zealand The airline on Tuesday backed away from its 2030 climate targets, citing delays to deliveries of more fuel-efficient aircraft and the rising price of alternative jet fuel.
The announcement means New Zealand’s national airline has become the first major airline to ease short-term climate measures, reflecting the scale of the challenge for the industry to meet its targets. Decarbonization target.
Air New Zealand CEO Greg Foran Said The statement said that in recent weeks it had become clear that “potential delays to the fleet renewal plan pose further risks to achieving its targets.”
“Global manufacturing and supply chain issues may delay the introduction of newer, more fuel-efficient aircraft, so airlines may have to hold on to their existing aircraft for longer than planned,” Foran said.
“Therefore, given that many of the means needed to achieve the goal are outside of our control, the decision has been taken to withdraw the 2030 target.”
Air New Zealand had previously said its 2030 goal was to reduce its carbon intensity by 28.9% compared to 2019. The airline said on Tuesday it had begun work on a new short-term target.
An Air New Zealand plane waits for passengers at Wellington International Airport on February 20, 2020.
Marty Melville | AFP | Getty Images
The aviation industry contributes significantly to climate change and is widely recognised as one of the most difficult industries to decarbonise.
In 2022, the aviation industry Estimation It is estimated to account for 2% of global energy-related carbon emissions and has grown faster in recent decades than other forms of transport such as rail, road and ship.
International Energy Agency Said For the aviation industry to get on track to achieve a zero emissions scenario in 2050, Low Emission FuelTo curb the increase in emissions, improvements to engines and aircraft, as well as measures to curb demand, will be necessary.
Air New Zealand also announced its intention to immediately withdraw from the Science Based Targets initiative, a UN-backed climate action group that aims to help companies cut their emissions in line with 2015 targets. Paris Agreement.
Air New Zealand chairman Therese Walsh said the airline remained committed to achieving its net zero carbon emissions goal by 2050.
“Our work to transition away from fossil fuels continues and we continue to advocate for global and national regulatory and policy settings that enable Air New Zealand and the whole of New Zealand’s aviation system to contribute to mitigating the risks of climate change,” Mr Walsh said.
