Finnair has announced a new science-based target to cut its carbon emissions intensity by 34.5% by 2033, using 2023 as the baseline year. This ambitious target, validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), highlights the airline’s commitment to significantly reducing its environmental impact over the next decade. The goal equates to a reduction of about 13% in absolute CO2 emissions, as the company takes further steps towards sustainable aviation.
Path to Decarbonization: Sustainable Aviation Fuels and Fleet Upgrades
Speaking to Travel Radar, Finnair CEO Turkka Kuusisto said:
“We recognize the challenges ahead, especially around the availability and affordability of Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF), but we are committed to achieving this target, Progress towards our target won’t be linear. The next decade will be crucial for SAF production, and it will be a key tool in our strategy”
To meet its carbon reduction goals, Finnair plans to invest heavily in Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF), improve operational efficiency, and optimize its route network. The airline also has plans to update its fleet over the next several years. SAF will play a critical role, accounting for more than half of Finnair’s emissions reduction target by 2033. However, Kuusisto emphasized that the SAF market needs to grow rapidly to support decarbonization efforts.
Long-Term Climate Goals Aligned with Industry Standards
Alongside its new mid-term goal, Finnair has revised its long-term climate strategy, aligning with the aviation industry’s objective of reaching net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. Previously, Finnair aimed for carbon neutrality by 2045, but the company now plans to focus more on reducing operational emissions rather than relying heavily on carbon offsets.
Finnair’s climate commitments reflect the airline’s broader goal of supporting the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) mission to make aviation more sustainable.
Finnair invites its customers and partners to support its sustainability efforts by exploring ways to reduce their carbon footprints.
Stay tuned for updates on Finnair’s progress in its annual sustainability reports. Do initiatives like these raise your support for airlines? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
