12. Challenges in the Environmentally Sustainable Aviation Ecosystem

The aviation industry, a critical driver of global economic growth, faces significant challenges in achieving environmental sustainability. Despite its economic and social benefits, the sector's growth trajectory raises concerns about its carbon footprint, with emissions estimated to potentially reach 22–30% by mid-century. This chapter provides a thorough examination of the challenges within the environmentally sustainable aviation ecosystem, focusing on CO2 emissions from flight operations. It highlights the roles of various stakeholders, including airlines, airports, ground handling companies, air navigation service providers, and regulatory authorities, and emphasizes the need for collaboration to establish a successful and sustainable aviation ecosystem. The chapter also explores the aviation industry's resilience in the face of global events, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, and the need for a comprehensive approach to address environmental impacts. It delves into the complexities of reporting environmental impacts, the immaturity of sustainable solutions, and the challenges posed by the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA). The chapter concludes with a summary of the main findings and their significance, providing a roadmap for achieving environmental sustainability in the aviation industry.