Flight Mode On: The Future of Flying in a Warming World

As summer takes off, so do we. But as we head to sun-drenched destinations and bucket-list adventures, it’s time we pause at 30,000 feet and ask: Where do we stand on making flying more sustainable?

From beach breaks in Bali to family reunions in Spain, air travel connects us like never before. It is one of humanity’s most incredible inventions — born from bold dreams, bird-watching, and the study of flight in nature. But it’s also one of the fastest-growing sources of global carbon emissions. So as the skies fill up again this summer, let’s look at where we are with decarbonising aviation, what’s being done globally, and how each of us can play a small but meaningful part.

A Brief Flight Through History

Just 120 years ago, the Wright brothers took the first powered flight after studying how birds soar and glide. Biomimicry — i.e. learning from nature’s designs — was central to aviation's birth. Their historic 12-second journey on a windy North Carolina beach was the spark that ignited an era of rapid global connectivity.

Since then, flight has evolved from risky experimentation to a near-daily convenience for millions. From Amelia Earhart’s daring transatlantic crossing to the introduction of commercial jets in the 1950s, and Concorde’s supersonic speeds in the '70s, air travel has shaped our economies, cultures, and possibilities. But this marvel of modern engineering now faces one of its biggest turbulence zones yet: the climate crisis.

Where Are We Now: Aviation’s Carbon Contrail

Today, aviation accounts for about 2.5% of global CO₂ emissions — yet it’s responsible for up to 3.5% of global warming due to other effects like contrails and high-altitude emissions. While that might sound small, only a fraction of the world’s population flies regularly — meaning those of us who do leave a disproportionately large footprint.

Here’s the reality check:

• A roundtrip flight from London to New York emits about 1.6 tonnes of CO₂ per passenger—the equivalent of driving a petrol car for 6 months.

• A short-haul European flight might emit 200-400 kg of CO₂ — still more than the average person in many developing countries emits in a whole month.

With global passenger numbers set to double by 2050, aviation’s climate impact is projected to triple if no action is taken.

The Global Plan: Net-Zero by 2050

In 2021, the International Air Transport Association (IATA), which represents 300 airlines globally, committed to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. Here's what that looks like:

• 65% of emissions cuts are expected to come from Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)

• 13% from new propulsion technologies (like electric and hydrogen)

• 3% from operational and infrastructure improvements

• 19% from carbon offsets and removals

Governments and alliances are on board too:

• The EU’s “Fit for 55” mandates SAF blending quotas starting at 2% by 2025, aiming for 70% by 2050.

• The U.S. SAF Grand Challenge targets 3 billion gallons of SAF annually by 2030.

• The UK Jet Zero Strategy aims for zero-emission transatlantic flight by 2050.

SAF: A Drop of Hope or a False Lift?

Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) — made from used cooking oils, agricultural waste, and even algae — is the aviation industry's golden ticket. It can cut lifecycle emissions by up to 80% compared to fossil jet fuel, and it’s already compatible with existing aircraft engines.

But here’s the rub:

• SAF currently makes up less than 0.1% of global aviation fuel use.

• It costs 2–5x more than kerosene.

• There’s simply not enough sustainable biomass to scale to global demand without risking land use conflicts.

Still, major players are investing heavily:

• Airlines like Lufthansa, United, and KLM have begun using SAF on select routes.

• Airports in Norway and Sweden now require SAF blending.

• Startups are experimenting with synthetic e-fuels made using renewable electricity and captured CO₂.

Electric Wings and Hydrogen Dreams

Beyond SAF, electric and hydrogen-powered planes are under development. These could eliminate in-flight emissions altogether — but they’re still a decade (or more) from commercial viability.

• Electric aircraft work for short-range flights under 500 km. Companies like Heart Aerospace and Eviation are leading the charge.

• Hydrogen fuel promises longer ranges, but storage and infrastructure challenges remain immense. Airbus aims to launch its hydrogen aircraft by 2035.

What Can We Do as Flyers?

Flying is often necessary — and sometimes deeply meaningful. So rather than shaming travellers, let’s focus on mindful choices that respect both people and the planet. Here’s how:

1. Fly Less, Stay Longer

Choose fewer, longer trips. Slow travel supports local economies better and reduces your footprint.

2. Offset Wisely (but Not Blindly)

Use carbon offset platforms that fund verified reforestation or clean energy projects—but know this is a stopgap, not a solution.

3. Choose Airlines Using SAF

Some airlines now disclose their SAF usage or allow you to contribute toward SAF credits when booking.

4. Swap Short Flights for Trains

In Europe and parts of Asia, high-speed trains are often faster and far greener for distances under 1,000 km.

5. Pack Light

Every kilo counts. A lighter plane burns less fuel.

6. A Note on Cabin Classes and Carbon

Business class emits 2–3x more CO₂ per seat because of space and weight. Flying business or first class often comes with a higher per-passenger carbon footprint — up to 2–3 times more than economy — because these seats take up more space and weight, which means fewer passengers share the aircraft’s total emissions load.

Reclaiming the Wonder of Flight, Responsibly

Let’s not forget: flying is one of the greatest triumphs of human innovation, inspired by birds and nature’s design brilliance. It’s helped families reunite, ideas spread, and borders blur. But with great altitude comes great responsibility.

This summer, as we soar across the skies, we can do so with greater awareness. The aviation transition is underway, but it's not fast or simple. Governments, industries, and innovators have roles to play, but so do we as travellers.

Flying should remain a privilege, not a planetary liability. Perhaps we need to treat it with the reverence it deserves, because how we choose to move today will shape the world we hand to tomorrow.