The Latin American and Caribbean Air Transport Association (ALTA), in collaboration with the technical consultancy ICF International, has presented the strategic study “Net Zero Aviation in Latin America and the Caribbean: Pathways and Trade-offs.” This report analyzes the critical pathways, costs, and necessary trade-offs for regional aviation to reach the goal of net-zero emissions by 2050. It underscores that sustainability must be balanced with the economic growth of a sector that contributes 3.6% of the regional GDP.
Aviation as a Driver of Economic Development
For Peter Cerdá, CEO of ALTA, the transition toward decarbonization cannot ignore the structural reality of Latin America and the Caribbean. The industry not only supports 2.9% of employment in the region but also serves as a fundamental pillar for the connectivity and competitiveness of its nations.
The study was developed through rigorous country-by-country data collection, technical site visits, and meetings with key stakeholders—including Directors General of Civil Aviation (DGACs), manufacturers, and suppliers—enabling the generation of reliable projections through 2050.
Strategic Pillars for Decarbonization
The analysis identifies four fundamental areas where the region must focus its efforts to reduce its carbon footprint:
1. Fleet Modernization: Regional Leadership
Latin America and the Caribbean is positioned at the forefront of technological renewal. Currently, 38% of operating capacity is performed by new-generation aircraft, a figure that surpasses the 34% recorded in both Europe and the United States.
- Investment: $40 billion USD has been allocated for the induction of 1,100 new aircraft.
- Impact: This measure is one of the most effective ways to improve fuel efficiency and reduce operating costs immediately.
→ Global Passenger Demand Grew 6.1% in February Driven by Latin America and Domestic Markets
2. Operational Efficiency and Air Navigation
Considered the most cost-effective measure in the short term, the optimization of operations can generate emission savings of up to 11%.
- Actions: Includes route optimization, reduction of ground times, and the implementation of digital tools.
- Requirement: Its success depends on coordinated action between governments, airport operators, and Air Navigation Service Providers (ANSPs).
3. The Challenge of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)
While Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) is the most powerful tool for the long term, its adoption faces critical economic barriers:
- Cost: SAF is between 3 and 12 times more expensive than conventional fossil fuels.
- Impact on Passengers: Without government incentives, mass adoption could increase the cost per seat by $43 USD and reduce air traffic by 30%.
- Potential: The region possesses abundant local raw materials to lead global production, but requires public policies that minimize the financial impact.
4. Nature-Based Solutions and Carbon Offsets
The region’s biodiversity offers a unique competitive advantage in the offset market. Between 2020 and 2024, Latin America issued 23% of the world’s carbon credits, despite being responsible for only 6.7% of global emissions. The current challenge is to elevate these solutions to the international standards required by the aviation industry.
The ALTA study concludes that, while the region has already taken concrete steps in fleet modernization, the success of the transition to Net Zero will depend on a realistic roadmap tailored to its own unique context.
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