EU introduces flight emissions label to promote more sustainable travel

The Commission today adopted a Regulation introducing a Flight Emissions Label (“FEL”) to clearly and reliably calculate greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from flights. Airlines operating flights within the EU or from the EU will be able to voluntarily adhere to this label, which will be fully operational from July 2025.

From next summer, passengers will be able to see and compare the estimated emissions of their flights, allowing them to make more informed purchasing decisions. Currently, airlines and ticket providers use disparate methods to estimate flight emissions, making comparison difficult.

The label aims to change this situation by defining a reliable and harmonised methodology for estimating flight emissions,taking into account factors such as the type of aircraft, the average number of passengers and the volume of cargo on board, as well as the aviation fuel used.

When searching for flights or booking tickets online, a specific logo will be displayed along with the flight emissions data, ensuring the reliability of the information. This will help passengers make informed choices and protect them from eco-posturing claims.

More information: European Commission.