Destination 2050

This DESTINATION 2050 roadmap provides an update on the ambitious pathway for a net zero transition published in 2021. The report is based on a bottom-up analysis of measures that increase energy efficiency, and reduce net CO2 emissions. It includes both an impact assessment of emission reduction measures through calculations within the SEO NetCost model. Based on these emission reductions, price forecasts of inputs such as EU ETS and the we make a cost assessment, and recommendations for further stakeholder action.

CO2 emission reductions are achieved through four groups of sustainability measures (improvements in aircraft and engine technology, improvements in ATM and operations, alternative fuels and economic measures). Each pillar contributes at various levels of effectiveness over time. The sustainability measures and their impact on air transport demand result in the following net CO2 emission reductions in the year 2050 compared to a hypothetical no-action reference scenario:

• 26% (76 Mt CO2) through improvements in aircraft and engine technology (24% conventional fuel and 2% hydrogen);
• 6% (19 Mt CO2) through improvements in air traffic management (ATM) and aircraft operations;
• 39% (116 Mt CO2) through using alternative fuels (Sustainable Aviation Fuel and hydrogen);
• 10% (29 Mt CO2) through economic measures (carbon removal projects only).
• 19% (55 Mt CO2) through impact on air transport demand of sustainability measures (1% technology, 16% SAF and 2% economic measures).