The UN International Civil Aviation Organization is considering new aircraft CO2 emissions standards. The standard was recommended by a panel of 170 experts and would go into affect for new aircraft designs beginning 2020 and for current in-production aircraft beginning 2023. It would require all aircraft not meeting the standard’s guidelines to cease production by 2029. As it is currently written, the standard would accept CO2 emission reductions in the form of structural, aerodynamic or propulsion changes.

“The goal of this process is ultimately to ensure that when the next generation of aircraft types enter service, there will be guaranteed reductions in international CO2 emissions. Our sector presently accounts for under two percent of the world’s annual CO2 emissions, but we also recognize that the projected doubling of global passengers and flights by 2030 must be managed responsibly and sustainably,” said Olumuyiwa Benard Aliu, president, ICAO Council.

The standard covers all sizes and types of international aircraft. However, the standard does focus primarily on large aircraft, particularly those weighing more than 60 tons. Aircraft in this weight class produce more than 90 percent of the total international aviation emissions, and also have the most access to needed technology and funds to meet the standard’s requirements.