The aviation sector is responsible for approximately 2.5% to 3% of global CO2 emissions and has committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, with Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) expected to contribute 65% of this goal.

However, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) warns that this ambitious target is currently 'in peril' due to climate-skeptical policies, particularly those enacted during Donald Trump's presidency.

To meet the aviation industry's needs by 2050, an estimated $4.7 trillion investment is required to develop a robust SAF sector, a feasible goal given the existing technology and raw materials.

Despite the challenges posed by recent political shifts towards fossil fuels, IATA's Vice President for Sustainable Development, Marie Owens Thomsen, remains confident that decarbonization efforts will continue, albeit at a slower pace.

IATA emphasizes that achieving decarbonization will necessitate significant investments, amounting to $4.7 trillion by 2050, but insists that this goal is 'totally within reach'.

Redirecting the $1 trillion per year currently allocated as subsidies to oil companies could significantly accelerate the transition to sustainable aviation, according to Thomsen.

Willie Walsh, IATA's Director General, criticized Europe's SAF incorporation mandates as unrealistic, arguing that they lead to increased costs that are unfairly passed on to consumers.

IATA forecasts that global SAF production will double in 2025, reaching 2.5 billion liters, yet this will only satisfy 0.7% of total aviation fuel needs, highlighting the significant gap that remains.

SAF, which is derived from biomass and waste oils, can reduce CO2 emissions by up to 80% compared to traditional kerosene, but its current cost is three to four times higher than that of fossil fuel kerosene.

The European Union has set gradual mandates for SAF incorporation into aviation fuel, starting with 2% in 2025 and targeting 6% by 2030, ultimately aiming for 70% by 2050.

Thomsen expressed concern that the current political landscape, which favors fossil fuels, represents a setback for achieving the 2050 target, but she remains hopeful that progress will not completely halt.

As the 2050 deadline approaches, the urgency for action increases, and while setbacks may slow progress, the commitment to decarbonization in aviation remains steadfast.