New data from IBA shows that global aviation CO2 emissions in 2025 surpassed pre-pandemic levels, reaching 960 million tonnes. While airlines have successfully reduced carbon intensity per revenue tonne kilometer, the overall growth in flight activity is erasing these efficiency gains. The report highlights a critical gap in the industry's path to net-zero by 2050. Operational efficiency alone is not enough to lower absolute emissions, meaning the sector must accelerate the adoption of sustainable aviation fuels and fleet renewal to make a real impact.
