Global airlines champion sustainability but urge fair pricing, as IATA highlights the need for cooperation — not competition — in fueling aviation’s cleaner future.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) is calling for balanced, transparent pricing in the aviation industry’s green transition, saying airlines are eager to embrace sustainability — but must not be penalized for doing so.

As Europe’s new green jet fuel mandates come into effect, IATA is encouraging regulators, energy suppliers, and airlines to work hand in hand to make cleaner skies achievable for all.

The European Union’s sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) mandate, which took effect this year, requires airlines to blend at least 2% of their fuel with greener alternatives, with that target set to rise to 6% by 2030.

The goal is to reduce carbon emissions from the aviation sector — one of the hardest industries to decarbonize — by gradually replacing fossil-based jet fuel with sustainable sources such as biofuels or synthetic alternatives.

However, as the aviation industry works to meet these ambitious environmental targets, IATA has raised concerns over rising costs and market practices that could threaten the long-term affordability and scalability of SAF.

According to IATA Director General Willie Walsh, some fuel suppliers have taken advantage of the new mandates to increase prices through additional “compliance surcharges,” almost doubling the cost compared to standard market rates. “We fully support the environmental goals behind these policies,” Walsh emphasized in an interview with Reuters, “but fair pricing is essential. We cannot allow sustainability to become an excuse for overcharging.”

While Walsh did not single out any specific suppliers or airlines affected, he urged European regulators to examine the issue and ensure that cost transparency and competitive fairness remain central to the green transition. “Our industry is ready to invest and innovate,” he said. “But we need partnership, not penalties, to get there.”

Airlines Leading the Green Revolution

The aviation industry has been one of the most proactive in embracing global sustainability goals. Major airlines have announced long-term commitments to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, with SAF seen as a cornerstone of that mission.

Compared to traditional jet fuel, SAF can reduce lifecycle emissions by up to 80%, offering a powerful pathway toward cleaner air travel.

Still, the challenge lies in scaling production. At present, SAF costs roughly three to five times more than regular jet fuel, mainly due to limited supply and high production costs. Energy companies argue that they need greater investment and stable demand to expand SAF output, while airlines face mounting financial pressure as costs rise.

“Everyone agrees on the importance of sustainable fuel,” said an aviation analyst based in Paris. “The real question is how to make it affordable, accessible, and fairly distributed across the industry.”

The Need for Shared Responsibility

Walsh’s comments come at a time when cooperation between governments, fuel suppliers, and airlines has never been more crucial. IATA has urged policymakers to incentivize innovation and support large-scale SAF production through subsidies, tax relief, and infrastructure investment — much like the renewable energy sector benefited from during its early growth years.

The association’s message is clear: sustainability should be a collective journey, not a competitive battlefield. “We’re not against mandates,” Walsh noted, “but they should drive progress, not profit-taking at the expense of airlines and passengers.”

Several oil majors, including ExxonMobil, TotalEnergies, and Shell, have already announced SAF expansion projects, though some have recently scaled back plans due to fluctuating demand and high input costs. Industry experts believe stronger public-private partnerships could bridge this gap, ensuring consistent fuel supply and fair pricing mechanisms.

Aviation’s Vision for 2025 and Beyond

Despite cost challenges, the global aviation sector remains optimistic. Airlines continue to invest in cleaner technologies — from next-generation aircraft to hydrogen-based propulsion research — alongside SAF development.

IATA’s latest report also highlights that the industry is expected to spend nearly $11 billion in 2025 on addressing congestion and supply chain challenges, reflecting its determination to maintain operational stability while advancing sustainability goals.

As Walsh aptly put it, “The skies belong to all of us — and so does the responsibility to protect them. We must build a system that rewards commitment, innovation, and environmental progress, not exploitation.”

With global travel rebounding and climate awareness at an all-time high, the coming decade could define the future of flight. For IATA and its member airlines, the mission remains clear: make aviation greener, fairer, and more resilient — together.

European Commission is leading the way in environmental protection, introducing measures to limit PFAS in firefighting foams — a decisive move toward cleaner ecosystems, safer drinking water, and a sustainable future for Europe

The European Union is setting a new standard for environmental safety and public health by restricting the use of PFAS, commonly known as “forever chemicals,” in firefighting foams. These substances, which do not naturally break down in the environment, have long raised concerns due to their persistence in soil, water, and human tissues.

By taking decisive regulatory action, the EU is demonstrating its commitment to sustainable practices, cleaner ecosystems, and safer communities across the continent.

PFAS, or per- and polyfluorinated substances, are widely used in firefighting foams due to their effectiveness in suppressing flammable liquids. However, studies have shown that around 60% of firefighting foams contain PFAS, leading to widespread contamination in soils and water sources.

Recognizing this environmental and health challenge, the European Commission has acted to minimize PFAS exposure while supporting a transition toward safer alternatives.

A Strategic and Phased Approach
The new restrictions will come into force by the end of October, but the EU has introduced transition periods tailored to different sectors. For portable fire extinguishers, sales containing PFAS will be restricted after six months. Municipal fire services and training operations will have an 18-month transition period, allowing sufficient time to adapt without compromising safety.

High-risk industrial sites, such as facilities storing large quantities of flammable liquids, have up to 10 years to transition, ensuring a balanced approach that safeguards both safety and the environment.

“This is an important step forward to tackle PFAS pollution across Europe,” said EU Environment Commissioner Jessika Roswall. “We are protecting ecosystems, communities, and future generations by reducing the presence of substances that persist in our environment.”

Positive Impacts for Health and the Environment
The move represents more than just a regulatory update — it is a forward-looking initiative that benefits the environment, public health, and European industries. By gradually phasing out PFAS, the EU is helping to prevent further contamination of drinking water, soil, and wildlife habitats.

Communities across Europe will see measurable improvements in environmental quality over the coming years, while industries are encouraged to innovate and adopt safer, more sustainable alternatives.

Experts predict that this regulation could accelerate the development of eco-friendly firefighting foams and other chemical substitutes, creating opportunities for research, green technology, and sustainable manufacturing.

The transition aligns with broader EU goals to reduce harmful chemicals in consumer products and promote a circular, low-impact economy.

A Leadership Role on the Global Stage
The EU’s decision also positions Europe as a global leader in chemical safety and environmental responsibility. As countries around the world grapple with the challenges posed by persistent chemicals, the EU’s approach provides a clear model for balancing safety, environmental protection, and industrial adaptation

. By implementing measured, science-based policies, the European Commission is setting benchmarks that other nations can follow, inspiring international collaboration and innovation.

Industry Readiness and Innovation
Companies affected by the new PFAS restrictions now have a clear framework to adapt their operations. Many are already exploring alternatives, investing in research, and redesigning products to comply with stricter standards.

This regulatory clarity not only supports environmental goals but also strengthens industry competitiveness by encouraging the adoption of sustainable technologies.

Moreover, the phased timeline allows industries to maintain safety and operational continuity, particularly in high-risk sectors, while aligning with EU sustainability targets. In this sense, the regulation is both practical and visionary, demonstrating how environmental protection and industrial innovation can move forward together.

The restriction of PFAS in firefighting foams is a milestone in Europe’s ongoing effort to create a cleaner, safer, and more sustainable future. It reflects a holistic approach to environmental stewardship — one that considers human health, ecological balance, and industrial innovation in equal measure.

As the EU implements these measures, the continent is set to see reduced chemical pollution, enhanced public safety, and increased investment in sustainable technologies.

Communities, industries, and policymakers alike can take pride in a regulation that represents a win-win scenario: protecting the environment while promoting innovation and competitiveness.

The initiative serves as a model of proactive governance, demonstrating how thoughtful legislation can address pressing environmental challenges while encouraging forward-thinking solutions.

With this step, Europe is not only reducing the impact of “forever chemicals” today but also paving the way for a healthier, safer, and more sustainable tomorrow.