Air New Zealand Drops 2030 Carbon Goal

WELLINGTON, New Zealand — Air New Zealand announced on Tuesday that it has scrapped its 2030 carbon emissions reduction targets, citing significant delays in the delivery of new fuel-efficient aircraft and the high costs associated with alternative jet fuels. This decision marks a notable retreat for the national carrier, which had previously positioned itself as a leader in climate commitments within the aviation sector. CEO Greg Foran acknowledged that the airline may need to extend the use of its existing fleet due to global supply chain issues, complicating efforts to meet its earlier targets. The airline's withdrawal from the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi), a UN-backed framework aimed at helping companies align their emissions reductions with the Paris Agreement, further underscores the difficulties faced by the aviation industry in achieving decarbonization goals. Air New Zealand had previously aimed for a 16.3% reduction in carbon emissions by 2030, compared to 2019 levels, but the current landscape has proven too challenging. Despite this setback, Air New Zealand remains committed to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. Chair Therese Walsh emphasized the airline's ongoing efforts to transition away from fossil fuels and advocate for supportive regulatory frameworks. The airline is now considering a new near-term emissions reduction target that reflects the current realities of aircraft availability and fuel options. The broader aviation sector continues to grapple with similar challenges, as air travel accounts for approximately 2.5% of global carbon emissions. Experts warn that without significant advancements in sustainable fuel production and aircraft efficiency, the industry's path to reducing its carbon footprint remains fraught with obstacles.