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IATA’s Net Zero roadmaps provide step-by-step detailing of critical actions for aviation to achieve net zero CO2 by 2050. They address aircraft technology, energy infrastructure, operations, finance, and policy.
The roadmaps are the first detailed assessment of the key steps necessary to accelerate the transition to net zero by 2050. Together, they show a clear direction and will evolve as we dig deeper to set interim milestones on the way to net zero. The roadmaps are aimed at airlines, but also for governments, suppliers, and financiers.
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“The roadmaps are a call to action for all aviation's stakeholders to deliver the tools needed to make this fundamental transformation of aviation a success with policies and products fit for a net-zero world.” Willie Walsh, IATA's Director General.
The roadmaps were not developed in isolation. A peer-to-peer review, complemented by a modeling tool provided by the Air Transportation Systems Laboratory at University College London, was conducted to calculate emission reductions for each technology.
As policy initiatives lay the foundation on which many of the needed innovations and actions will rest, these roadmaps will be a critical reference point for policy makers.
In September 2024, IATA released updated Policy and Finance Net Zero Roadmaps, containing expanded and deepened analyses (available below).
> Net Zero Roadmaps Executive Summary (pdf)
Aircraft Technology Roadmap
The development of more efficient aircraft and engines. Particularly important are the steps needed to enable aircraft powered by 100% SAF, hydrogen or batteries. All development milestones are backed-up by announced investment and demonstrator programs. Also included are new engines, aerodynamics, aircraft structures and flight systems.
> Aircraft Technology Roadmap (pdf)
Energy and New Fuels Infrastructure Roadmap
The focus is on the fuels and new energy carrier infrastructure upstream from airports needed to facilitate the use of aircraft powered by SAF or hydrogen. Renewable energy plays a vital role in meeting the aviation sector's energy demand, and the roadmap outlines milestones to enable the necessary infrastructure developments.
> Energy and New Fuels Infrastructure Roadmap (pdf)
Operations Roadmap
The opportunities for reducing emissions and improving energy efficiency by improving the way existing aircraft are operated. Automation, big data management, and the integration of new technologies are key enablers for optimizing air traffic management and enhancing the overall efficiency of the air transportation system.
> Operations Roadmap (pdf)
Finance Roadmap
The Roadmap offers a detailed view of the required investments to reach net zero CO2 emissions by 2050, and the costs involved to airlines in procuring the new solutions.
> Finance Roadmap (pdf)
Policy Roadmap
The Roadmap emphasizes the importance of strategic policy sequencing and addresses the need for global collaboration, including beyond the aviation sector. The recommendations recognize that there is no one-size-fits-all solution, and policies must ensure that all countries can participate in the future global SAF market.
> Policy Roadmap (pdf)