Environmental Policy

Aviation is a catalyst for growth, a vital conduit for world trade and a major global employer. Nearly 57 million jobs and $2.2 trillion in global GDP are supported by aviation. Aviation is also the safest, most efficient means of public transportation. Over long distances and across geographical barriers, no alternative means of transport exist. Aviation's vast network of affordable transportation services offers freedom to travel for nations, regions and individuals and facilitates the exchange of cultural and educational experiences.

Promoting sustainable air transport

With these benefits comes an impact on the environment. In partnership with industry stakeholders and governments, IATA is focused on developing sensible environmental policies to enable and promote sustainable and eco-efficient air transport. IATA advocates that as a global industry, aviation requires global solutions developed through the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

At its Annual General Meeting in June 2013, IATA members adopted a resolution providing a set of principles on how governments could integrate a single global market-based measure as part of an overall package of measures to put a cap on net aviation emissions from 2020.

IATA’ Environment Committee (ENCOM) and its task forces provides environmental policy advice, ensuring airline views are represented at industry and government meetings and consultations.

• Climate Change
• Aircraft Noise  
• Local Air Quality 

IATA has several programs to assist airlines in improving their environmental performance. IATA is also working on several initiatives on Cargo Sustainability.

Outside views on the environment