Cheap flights are at risk in the EU. The EU has agreed on new rules that require airlines to use more environmentally friendly types of fuel and reduce emissions, which will inevitably lead to an increase in air ticket prices.
As reported by The Washington Post, the European Commission, which is the executive body of the bloc, has stated that the agreement reached by member states and the European Parliament requires suppliers to blend sustainable aviation fuel with conventional jet fuel in increasing amounts from 2025.
“This move is expected to reduce aircraft carbon emissions by two-thirds by 2050 compared to the ‘business as usual’ scenario and provide climate and air quality benefits through the reduction of emissions other than CO2,” the commission said in a statement.
The Commission reports that the aviation sector accounts for 13.9% of greenhouse gas emissions from transport in the EU, making it the second-largest source of emissions in this sector after road transport.
The political agreement is part of the EU’s “Fit for 55” package, which aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55% by 2030.
The EU has also set a goal of achieving climate neutrality by 2050. To do this, it is necessary to reduce transport emissions by 90% compared to the 1990 level.
“The EU is directing all sectors towards climate neutrality, taking the necessary measures to achieve our climate goals by 2030 and 2050,” said Frans Timmermans, EU Commissioner responsible for the European Green Deal.
Under the Agreement, at least 2% of all fuel supplied to airports must be environmentally sustainable from 2025, with this share reaching 70% by mid-century.
“The new EU jet fuel blend will also have to contain a minimum share of the latest and most environmentally friendly synthetic fuels, which will gradually increase over time,” the Commission said.
Now, for the agreement to take effect, it only needs to be officially approved by EU lawmakers and member states.
According to Tripmydream, plane tickets may become much more expensive, as airlines will have to pay for greenhouse gas emissions permits. Currently, this is a free function.
The law is already under consideration in the EU Council. Implementation will begin next year if it is approved by EU member states.
