The UK government launched a public consultation on 16 December on adopting the United Nations’ global Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA) to mitigate the environmental impacts of air travel.
The consultation outlines the plans for the UK’s implementation of CORSIA, an initiative overseen by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), the UN’s specialised aviation agency. Under this scheme, airlines operating international flights must offset carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions through measures such as investing in renewable energy projects—like solar grid installations—and reforestation efforts. Key proposals in the consultation include mechanisms for regulating the scheme in the UK, as well as penalties for airlines failing to comply.
Aviation Minister Mike Kane stated, “The UK is already at the forefront of global efforts to tackle climate change, and carbon pricing schemes like CORSIA play a critical role in decarbonising aviation. With our Plan for Change at the centre of these efforts, we are committed to helping the aviation sector transition to a cleaner future. We welcome all views on how airlines can continue participating in these vital initiatives.”
The consultation also explores how the UK can align CORSIA with its existing commitments under the UK Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS). To avoid double regulation of flights between the UK and Europe, the government proposes measures to ensure airlines are not subjected to both schemes, aiming to prevent unnecessary cost increases for passengers.
Aviation accounts for approximately 3% of global CO2 emissions. The UK is among 129 countries participating in CORSIA and has actively supported other nations in adopting the scheme, providing training to 11 countries in Africa and other regions to ensure its effective implementation.
Tim Alderslade, Chief Executive of Airlines UK said, “UK airlines are committed to achieving net zero emissions. Effective international action, alongside innovation, is key to decarbonising this global industry. We welcome this progress and look forward to working with the government to strengthen CORSIA, ensuring the aviation sector is on a sustainable path by 2050. Carbon offsetting mechanisms are essential to balancing passenger demand with the industry’s environmental goals.”
Marie Owens Thomsen, Senior Vice President of Sustainability and Chief Economist at the International Air Transport Association (IATA) added, “IATA supports this consultation as a crucial step towards securing the long-term sustainability of air transport. As the world’s third-largest aviation market, the UK plays a vital role in global decarbonisation efforts. CORSIA is the only international market-based scheme to reduce emissions from aviation, and its effective implementation will ensure progress toward our net zero goals.”
The consultation coincides with the inaugural meeting of the Jet Zero Taskforce, a new group dedicated to advancing sustainable aviation. This initiative complements the government’s broader objectives to position the UK as a leader in clean energy, boost the economy, and support high-quality aviation and aerospace jobs nationwide. The UK has played a pivotal role in developing CORSIA through ICAO and remains committed to enhancing the scheme over time. The consultation represents another significant step in addressing the environmental challenges posed by aviation while ensuring the industry remains competitive and resilient.The public is encouraged to share their views on this critical initiative, which aims to balance economic growth with global climate commitments.
