✈️ Exclusive Benefits for Readers
Verified codes to save on your next trip.
Go WHAT – Massachusetts Institute of Technology presented the 7 key points to decarbonize and have sustainable air transport in Latin America, financed by LATAM and Airbus. Photo WSP
Air transport is a fundamental sector for the economies of Latin America, contributing to the 3,5% of the regional GDP and generating 7,7 million jobs. Nevertheless, It is also a major source of greenhouse gas emissions. (the 3% at the global level), which represents a challenge for the region in the context of climate change.
In this way, the study “Options to decarbonize aviation in Latin America in a sustainable way”, carried out by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (WITH), identifies seven keys to achieving more sustainable air transport in Latin America, where the first results were presented for Brazil and Chile.
The 7 study keys
During editing 2024 of Wings of Change organized by IATA in Santiago de Chile on a biannual basis, and in parallel with FIDAE, MIT was able to present the results of an extensive study in favor of sustainability in the region. I was present.
This study aims to show the current scientific evidence to understand the possible paths for the decarbonization of aviation in 6 countries in Latin America: Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Mexico and Peru. Till the date, Preliminary results have been developed for Brazil and Chile.
The results are as follows:
- A growing economic engine: Air transport plays a crucial role in Latin American economies, contributing with a 3,5% of the regional GDP and generating 7,7 million jobs. Air traffic is expected to continue growing in the region, driving economic development and connectivity.
- Decarbonizing flight: A commitment to the planetAware of the environmental impact of the sector, airlines and governments in the region have committed to achieving carbon neutrality by the year 2050. Sustainable aviation fuels (PURE) They are the main alternative to reduce emissions, and Latin America has great potential for its production thanks to its competitive advantages in biofuels and renewable energies..
- Leading SAF production: Latin American countries can become leaders in SAF production, not only to satisfy domestic demand but also to export to global markets. The region has abundant natural resources and the necessary experience to develop and produce SAF competitively.. The problem here is that the estimated production cost is higher than that of conventional jet fuel..
- Increase in the cost of tickets: One of the biggest challenges is generating competitive SAF prices, since the current price per liter of Jet A1 is around 0.70 $/liter, while SAF production in Brazil estimates a cost for the plants between 0.90 – 1.60 $/liter. In this scenario, the ticket price will increase for passengers, decreasing demand and affecting connectivity and economic growth.
- New aircraft are key to success: Aircraft manufacturers must expedite the development of new technology targeting hydrogen, hybrid airplanes and battery electric airplanes, this can contribute to achieving zero emissions goals, but the investment will be high.
- Public politics: Governments in the region must generate and balance the impact of the decarbonization measures that they may have on air traffic and connectivity.. A policy framework along with incentives to boost supply and demand, will allow us to balance the cost of sustainable fuel and the substantial increase that air tickets will have.
- Regional collaboration: Collaboration between Latin American countries is essential to enhance the region's strengths and close existing gaps. A regional approach will allow knowledge sharing, technologies and resources to advance towards a more sustainable aviation future, By acting as a bloc there is more potential to compete against other more developed and economically strong countries in the world..
We must act now
The seven keys identified in the MIT study represent a roadmap to achieve more sustainable air transport in Brazil and Chile, expandable to all of Latin America as a baseline. The implementation of these measures will require a joint effort by governments., the industry, airlines and passengers.
It is important that all actors involved in the air transport sector work together to implement the necessary measures to achieve more sustainable air transport.. Governments can establish public policies that encourage the use of sustainable fuels and investment in new technologies. The industry can develop and market more efficient aircraft and sustainable fuels. Airlines can adopt more efficient operational practices and offer passengers more sustainable flight options. And passengers can choose to fly on airlines that are committed to sustainability and offsetting their carbon emissions..
By working together, we can achieve more sustainable air transport that benefits people and the planet, but we have to start now, due to the intentions of many governments to restrict flights, put green taxes and so on, Acting in time will be key to reducing the effects on connectivity.
✈️ Exclusive Benefits for Readers
Search here for hotels ALL over the world at the best price.
