BCD Travel releases report on the future of air travel

According to the first of a two-part report by travel management company BCD Travel, air travel is experiencing a period of growth after a tumultuous three years due to the pandemic. Additionally, it’s expected to rebound stronger with an emphasis on sustainability. A survey of travel buyers additionally revealed that almost two-thirds of travel managers rate environmentally sustainable travel as very or extremely important, which aligns with the wider sentiment. The challenge of sustainable aviation fuel Investing in sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) offers the most practical immediate solution for reducing air travel’s carbon footprint. Although aircraft are currently allowed to fly with up to 50% blended SAF, the full adoption of SAF is still delayed; SAF accounted for less than 0.1% of total aviation fuel consumption in 2020. Unfortunately, the availability and cost associated with SAF have pushed airlines to pursue other alternatives including hybrid-electric, fully electric, and hydrogen-powered flights. Although still some years away, these can reduce emissions and may even offer emission-free flights. Evolution of rail travel Rail also plays a role in sustainable travel and is being increasingly considered as an option for shorter trips. Several large markets already have high-speed electric-powered rail which, when compared to air travel, offers a greener and sometimes faster way to travel between city centres. Using a combination of air and rail is another way to reduce travel’s carbon footprint. Olivia Ruggles-Brise, vice president of Sustainability at BCD (pictured left), comments: “Sustainable business travel goes hand in hand with sustainable aviation. However, addressing the carbon emissions generated by aviation, particularly in light of the sector’s forecast growth, remains one of the greatest challenges in the quest for net zero.” “We can all critically evaluate the need for each flight taken and look for sustainable options such as flying on newer aircraft, selecting direct routes, or travelling in the economy cabin. The future of aviation lies in purposeful travel that maximises value and minimises impact.” The first part of BCD’s report on the future of air travel can be found here. The second part is set to be published later in 2023.