US to target net-zero aviation emissions by 2050

The US Department of Transportation has laid out a roadmap for the nation's aviation sector to cut greenhouse emissions by 100% by 2050, setting it in line with the goals established by other major economies.

Among the new plans for the sector include a target of slashing emissions by 20% by 2030, amid growing international pressure from activist groups, Transport Secretary Pete Buttigieg revealed to the COP26 summit in Glasgow.

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Aviation currently accounts for around 2% of global greenhouse gas emissions, but accounts for around 11-12% of transport-related emissions in the US. These figures are expected to increase as air travel continues to grow, especially following the blip experienced during the coronavirus pandemic.

President Joe Biden previously revealed plans to make the entire nation net-zero by 2050 which came alongside initiatives such as increasing investment and consumer interest in electric vehicles.

The White House recently revealed its new Aviation Climate Plan, which seeks to develop more efficient aircraft and promote research and development into sustainable aviation fuels (SAF), among other alternatives, such as developing electric or hydrogen fuel-based planes for short-haul aviation and an increasing airport capacity.

Jet fuel will ostensibly remain in use in the coming decades, but the plan also seeks to tackle ground emissions from airports, which will likely form part of its 30% goal.

Buttigieg revealed in a broadcast that a coalition will be formed between the US and UK to help further tackle emissions.

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The Transport Department will also be providing around $300 million in allocated funding to help electrify airport equipment.

The government's plan of action also specified tackling net-zero aviation emissions will be split across multiple agencies, including the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

Buttigieg also unveiled a $100 million bipartisan infrastructure bill, with the ultimate goal of preserving and creating new "well-paying" jobs within the US' aviation sector.

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