IATA announces the first methodology for calculating passenger CO₂

Because passengers demand accurate information on _CO2 emissions on flights, it is essential to have an accurate and standardized calculation methodology.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced the launch of the IATA Recommended Practice _CO2 Per Passenger Calculation Methodology. The IATA Methodology, which uses operational data from verified airlines, provides the most accurate calculation methodology for the industry to quantify _CO2 emissions per passenger for a specific flight.

As travellers, corporate travel managers and travel agents increasingly demand accurate information on _CO2 emissions from flights, an accurate and standardised calculation methodology is critical. This is particularly true in the business sector, where such calculations are needed to support voluntary emission reduction targets.

“Airlines have worked together through IATA to develop an accurate and transparent methodology using verified operational data from airlines. This provides the most accurate _CO2 calculation for organizations and individuals to make informed decisions about flying sustainably. This includes decisions on investing in voluntary carbon offsetting or sustainable use of aviation fuel (SAF),” said Willie Walsh, Director General of IATA.

The IATA Methodology takes into account the following factors:

• Guidance on fuel measurement, aligned with the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA)

• Clearly defined scope for calculating _CO2 emissions in relation to airlines’ flight activities

• Guidance on non-CO2 emissions _{and radiative forcing index (RFI)}

• Weight-based calculation principle: allocation of _CO2 emissions per passenger and belly cargo

• Orientation on the weight of the passengers, using the real and standard weight

• Emissions factor for the conversion of jet fuel consumption to _CO2, fully aligned with CORSIA

• Cabin class weighting and multipliers to reflect different airline cabin configurations

• Guidance on FAS and carbon offsets as part of the _CO2 calculation

“The plethora of carbon calculation methodologies with varying results creates confusion and dents consumer confidence. Aviation is committed to achieving net zero by 2050. By creating an accepted industry standard for calculating aviation carbon emissions, we are implementing essential support to achieve this goal. IATA’s Passenger _CO2 Calculation Methodology is the most authoritative tool and is ready to be adopted by airlines, travel agents and passengers,” Walsh added.

Source: Pulso Turístico