From Climate Promises to Aerodynamic Dreams: A Decade of Challenges Since the Paris Climate Agreement to the 2025 Paris Air Show

The recent Paris Air Show 2025 wrapped up with all the glitz and glamour one would expect. However, noticeable in the celebration was a critical backdrop: the 10th anniversary of the Paris Climate Agreement, signed a decade ago at the same venue. This bittersweet juxtaposition highlights a growing concern about the aviation industry’s impact on our planet.

Back in 2015, aviation contributed about 2-3% of global carbon dioxide emissions. It seemed manageable, and many believed advancements in technology would help curb this figure. However, a decade later, the situation looks grim. Despite some efficiency improvements, total emissions have soared over 20% compared to 2015 levels. The demand for air travel, especially in regions like Asia, continues to climb, putting a strain on any sustainability efforts.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has pledged to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. But experts warn that without drastic changes, emissions may double or triple from 2019 levels. Achieving this ambitious goal will necessitate significant efforts beyond just better aircraft engines.

Airports themselves also contribute heavily to emissions. They require vast resources for operations like heating and cooling, making them substantial carbon footprints. Additionally, many emissions (Scope 3) come from passenger ground transport to and from airports, which is often overlooked in industry reports. There’s also the unseen emissions associated with transporting goods.

While there are glimmers of hope—like concepts for electric vertical takeoff vehicles and sustainable aviation fuels (SAF)—real progress is slow. Currently, SAF production meets less than 0.2% of jet fuel demand, and the scalability is hindered by high costs and limited resources. Many airlines tout their agreements for SAF, but these agreements often represent tiny fractions of their overall fuel use.

As for technological innovations like hydrogen or battery-powered planes, they are more suited for smaller aircraft and will take decades to become mainstream. The big long-haul flights, the largest contributors to carbon emissions, will likely continue relying on traditional fuels for years to come.

To make real changes, the entire aviation industry—from airlines to manufacturers and airport operators—must collaborate. This includes investing in SAF production, retiring older aircraft, optimizing operations, and accurately reporting emissions. Passengers also hold responsibility; frequent flyers, representing just 20% of travelers, account for 80% of emissions. They can reduce their carbon footprint by choosing trains for short trips or supporting airlines committed to sustainability.

Governments play a crucial role too. They can help by ending fossil fuel subsidies, imposing taxes on kerosene, and pushing for stricter regulations on emissions. Furthermore, military aviation needs to be included in climate discussions since it also contributes significantly to global emissions.

Carbon credits and offsetting schemes present another layer of complexity. While these may offer temporary solutions, relying on them without making substantial emissions cuts risks greenwashing. High-quality carbon credits will be essential, but they cannot replace direct action in reducing emissions by 70-80% through better technology and efficiency.

The truth is that the aviation industry faces a formidable challenge. The promise of achieving net-zero by 2050 seems unlikely based on current trends. Major shifts in consumer behavior, an urgent rise in SAF production, and a concerted global effort will be crucial for meaningful change.

The recent Paris Air Show highlighted the ambition of the aviation sector, but ambition alone won’t cut it. It’s time for the industry to shift from grand ideas to concrete actions. The next decade must be about sustainable growth and accountability, not just dazzling prototypes and promises. The future of air travel—and our planet—depends on it.

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