Flag carrier Air New Zealand has announced that it will no longer be able to achieve its 2030 carbon emissions targets due to a lack of newer fuel-efficient aircraft and alternative jet fuels. The airline’s Chief Executive, Greg Foran, expressed concerns about potential delays in the fleet renewal plan, which could impact the introduction of more fuel-efficient aircraft. As a result, Air New Zealand has decided to withdraw from the Science Based Targets Initiative and is considering a new carbon emissions reduction target that better reflects the challenges facing the industry.
Despite this setback, the airline remains committed to reaching its goal of net zero carbon emissions by 2050. Air New Zealand Chair, Therese Walsh, emphasized the company’s ongoing efforts to transition away from fossil fuels and advocate for regulatory and policy changes that will help reduce emissions in the aviation sector. The airline had initially planned to reduce overall carbon emissions by 16.3 percent by 2030, compared to a 2019 baseline.
The decision by Air New Zealand comes at a time when airlines are facing increased demand for emissions-generating fuel due to conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine, forcing them to take longer routes. With the challenges posed by the lack of newer aircraft and alternative fuels, it remains to be seen how the airline will adjust its emissions reduction strategy in the coming years.
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