Current Scenario

The aviation sector, responsible for about 2.5% of global CO2 emissions, contributes approximately 900 million tonnes of CO2 annually. With expected increases in aviation traffic, these emissions could rise significantly by 2050 under a business-as-usual scenario. In India, a rapidly growing aviation market, decarbonizing the aviation sector is crucial for sustainable development and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. India is projected to become the third-largest aviation market by 2025, with passenger traffic expected to increase from 341 million in 2019 to over 1 billion by 2040. This growth trajectory underscores the urgent need for sustainable practices in aviation.

Key Statistics

• Global Emissions: Aviation accounts for 2.5% of global CO2 emissions, approximately 900 million tonnes annually.
• India’s Emissions: The aviation sector contributes about 4-5% of India’s total CO2 emissions from the transport sector.
• Passenger Growth: India’s aviation market is expected to grow at an annual rate of 10%, with passenger numbers increasing from 341 million in 2019 to over 1 billion by 2040.
• Fleet Expansion: Indian airlines are expanding their fleets rapidly, with orders for over 1,000 new aircraft by 2030, increasing the need for decarbonization efforts.

Key Technology

Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAFs)

• Biofuels: Biofuels provide a drop-in alternative to conventional jet fuel, reducing lifecycle CO2 emissions by up to 80%. 

Hybrid and Electric Aircraft

• Hybrid Propulsion: Hybrid aircraft, which combine traditional jet engines with electric propulsion systems, reduces fuel consumption and emissions. Companies like Airbus are developing hybrid-electric aircraft prototypes.
• Electric Aircraft: Battery-based electric aircraft are suitable for short-distance travel. Startups like Eviation are working on electric planes that serve regional routes.

Hydrogen Fuel Cells

• Zero Emissions: Hydrogen fuel cells produce only water vapor as a byproduct, making them a zero-emission alternative. Research institutions and companies like Boeing are exploring hydrogen-powered aircraft.

Operational Efficiency

• Optimized Routing: Using advanced air traffic management systems to optimize flight routes reduce fuel consumption. The Airports Authority of India (AAI) is implementing NextGen air traffic management technologies.
• Efficient Taxiing: Technologies like electric taxiing systems reduce fuel burn during ground operations. Airlines are investing in ground-based electric propulsion systems for taxiing.

Advanced Materials and Aerodynamics

• Lightweight Materials: Using advanced lightweight materials such as carbon fiber composites improve aircraft fuel efficiency.
• Aerodynamic Improvements: Enhancing aerodynamics through innovative wing designs and drag-reducing technologies further reduce fuel consumption.

Case Studies

• SpiceJet’s Biofuel Flight: In 2018, SpiceJet conducted India’s first biofuel-powered flight, using a blend of 75% aviation turbine fuel and 25% biofuel. This flight demonstrated the potential of biofuels to reduce emissions and dependence on fossil fuels.
• AAI’s NextGen Air Traffic Management: The Airports Authority of India (AAI) is implementing NextGen air traffic management technologies to optimize flight routes and reduce fuel consumption. 
• Eviation’s Alice Electric Aircraft: Eviation is developing Alice, a fully electric aircraft designed for regional travel. Alice aims to provide zero-emission air travel for short distances, with a range of up to 1,000 kilometers on a single charge.