The UK has third-largest aviation network in the world, and the second largest aerospace manufacturing sector. The aviation sector has a turnover of over £60 billion, directly contributes over £22 billion to our GDP and supports almost one million UK jobs and our aerospace manufacturing sector generates annual exports of £26 billion and employs over 100,000 highly skilled British workers.
Sustainable Aviation members invest over £1.7 billion every year on Research & Development and worked together to develop sustainable aviation fuels. Our Road-Map sets out how these fuels can deliver a cleaner future for our industry whilst providing £265 million to the UK economy and the creation of nearly 4,500 jobs over the next 15 years. The UK’s decision to support these through the Renewable Transport Fuels Obligation will enable their roll-out.
Sustainable Aviation has also been at the forefront of innovative operational procedures including the development of Continuous Descent and Continuous Climb operations. This world-leading innovation cuts noise significantly by reducing the need for engine use on approach and getting aircraft higher faster on departure. After being created in the UK, this is now being rolled out around the world.
Sustainable Aviation members are working with the UK Government on the implementation of the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA) which means aviation will fund further emissions reductions in other sectors where reductions can be achieved more cost effectively. As a result over £25bn will be invested in projects with significant socio-economic, health and environmental benefits in addition to carbon reduction.
More local environmental initiatives are also regularly considered in Sustainable Aviation, most recently how we can reduce the use of plastics on board aircraft and at airports.
We will continue to come together to share best practice, drive innovation and continually improve our performance.
Find out more about our goals.