BATA Reaction to EC ‘Stopping the Clock’ on Aviation in Emissions Trading Scheme

November 12th, 2012

In response to the announcement today by the European Commission about the suspension of aspects of airline involvement in the EU Emissions Trading Scheme, BATA has issued this statement.

BATA Reaction to EC ‘Stopping the Clock’ on Aviation in Emissions Trading Scheme

The British Air Transport Association (BATA) has responded to the announcement today by the European Commission about the suspension of aspects of airline involvement in the EU Emissions Trading Scheme.

Simon Buck, Chief Executive of the British Air Transport Association said:

“Details of precisely what has been agreed between the Commission and Member States are as yet sketchy ahead of the technical briefing promised for tomorrow but UK airlines have always argued for a global approach to tackling the impact of aircraft emissions on climate change. We would therefore welcome any progress on this made at international level through ICAO.

However, any part suspension of the EU ETS must not result in different rules applying to different airlines dependent on the routes they operate. There is a potential for competitive distortion between airlines with this action which could be damaging.

UK airlines have taken great strides towards reducing their emissions over the past few decades and continue to do so through initiatives such as Sustainable Aviation.”

ENDS