European Aviation Environmental Report 2025: Key insights
This decade is proving to be a turning point in the fight against climate change, and aviation, like many other sectors, is under increasing pressure to deliver on its decarbonisation goals. Challenges such as supply chain delays, the high cost of Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF), and limited production capacity add complexity to this transition. In this context, the European Aviation Environmental Report 2025, published earlier in January by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) in collaboration with the European Environment Agency and Eurocontrol, serves as an objective, clear, and accurate source of information on the environmental performance of the aviation sector in Europe. Released every three years, the report highlights the progress made, identifies challenges, and outlines key recommendations to advance sustainability. Among its lines, the report acknowledges the crucial role of the initiatives of ACI EUROPE and the importance of Airport Carbon Accreditation programme in driving the decarbonisation of airports. Below, we delve into the report’s key insights, focusing on the actionable recommendations for airports to meet their sustainability ambitions.
Facilitating SAF
EASA’s report places SAF at the centre of efforts to reduce aviation’s carbon footprint. The ReFuelEU Aviation Regulation has set a minimum supply mandate for SAF in Europe, starting with 2% in 2025 and increasing to 70% in 2050. To meet these targets, EASA recommends that airports need to invest in infrastructure to support SAF storage, distribution, and integration into existing systems. Collaboration with fuel producers, airlines, and policymakers is essential to create reliable and cost-effective supply chains. The report highlights the importance of financial incentives such as subsidies and market-based mechanisms to bridge the price gap between SAF and traditional jet fuel. While SAF production capacity is expected to grow significantly, EASA emphasises the need for airports to raise awareness and foster partnerships that promote SAF adoption.
Decarbonising airport operations
The report emphasises the urgent need for airports to adopt ambitious decarbonisation measures. With 118 European airports targeting net zero CO2 emissions by 2030, significant progress is being made through investments in on-site renewable energy, electrification of ground operations, and the implementation of advanced carbon management systems. Enhanced infrastructure for SAF and zero-emission aircraft is also being developed, aligning with ReFuelEU Aviation requirements. The report also recognises the pivotal role of the Airport Carbon Accreditation programme in driving airports towards decarbonisation. With over 300 airports in Europe and more than 600 globally now actively managing and reducing their carbon emissions, the programme is a key tool in supporting the aviation sector’s transition to net zero.
Addressing noise and air quality
Managing noise and air quality impacts is another priority highlighted in the report. EASA’s recommendations include adopting noise abatement procedures, investing in quieter aircraft technologies, and implementing strategies that align with the Zero Pollution Action Plan. Airports are encouraged to develop comprehensive air quality improvement plans to meet revised EU directives.
Policy and collaboration
The report underlines the need for harmonised policies and collaboration to achieve sustainability objectives. EASA calls for airports to engage actively with policymakers and align their initiatives with EU-level strategies, including the European Green Deal and ReFuelEU Aviation mandates. Participation in research initiatives under Horizon Europe is encouraged to drive innovation in low-emission technologies and environmental monitoring. EASA also stresses the importance of international cooperation to standardise sustainability practices and promote collective progress across the global aviation sector.
The road ahead
The European Aviation Environmental Report 2025 makes it clear that achieving Europe’s sustainability goals requires collective action, robust policy frameworks, and accelerated innovation. Transparency and stakeholder engagement are crucial to rebuilding public trust in the aviation industry’s commitment to sustainability. Positioned at the intersection of innovation and decarbonisation, airports must adapt to evolving regulations and invest in renewable energy infrastructure and zero-emission technologies. Policymakers play a pivotal role in ensuring that regulations foster collaboration and innovation while providing the necessary accountability. By following these priorities, airports can solidify their role as key players in Europe’s sustainable aviation ecosystem, setting a global benchmark for environmental responsibility and leadership.
You can read the full report here and explore the dedicated section on airports here.
