Source · Select Committees · Environmental Audit Committee
Recommendation 4
4
Accepted
Paragraph: 50
Legislation for international aviation emissions commitment significantly delayed by government
Conclusion
We are nevertheless concerned that legislation to give effect to this commitment has not been brought forward for approval by Parliament, over two and a half years since the commitment was originally made and over two years since the Government promised to legislate “within twelve months”.
Government Response Summary
The government notes the concern about delayed legislation but does not commit to bringing it forward. Instead, it outlines existing efforts to improve aviation efficiencies, such as Free Route Airspace deployment and funding for the Aerospace Technology Institute Programme.
Paragraph Reference:
50
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government
Accepted
The Government notes this recommendation. The Government recognises that efficiencies in our airspace, aircraft and airports remains a key lever in decarbonising the sector in the near term. As part of our high-ambition scenario in the Jet Zero Strategy, we assume an average annual fuel efficiency improvement of 2% from aircraft, air traffic management and operational efficiencies. We keep the assumptions in the Jet Zero Strategy under close review and will consider whether further action is required to meet the trajectory to net zero, including through our first major review in 2027. We have worked closely with NATS to implement Free Route Airspace (FRA). The first deployment of FRA was rolled out in Scotland in 2021 and will save 12,000 tonnes CO every year (equivalent to the power used by some 3,500 family homes). The second tranche was deployed over the west of England in March 2023 will save a further 12,000 tonnes CO each year. The Government is supporting the development of new low and zero-carbon emission aircraft technology through the Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI) Programme. The Programme will receive £685m of government funding between 2022 and 2025, and a further £975m between 2025 and 2030.