What have we learned so far?

1. Think beyond the tailpipe.

Lifecycle emissions across the whole value stream must be considered. No step should be ignored. It is the total climate impact of emissions that determines the sustainability impact.

By evaluating the carbon intensity of different fuel options, the aviation industry can make informed decisions and prioritize those that offer the greatest potential for reducing emissions.

2. SAF is essential.

The journey to net-zero is critically dependent on the renewable energy transition. As part of this transition, the bulk of emissions reductions will very likely come from the use of SAF on conventional aircraft, with smaller contributions from electric and hydrogen aircraft possible in the 2040s.

3. Newer planes reduce emissions – by a lot.

New airplanes offer better fuel efficiency. Introducing new airplanes at a higher rate will reduce global emissions noticeably within a decade.

4. Electric and hydrogen airplanes won’t make a large dent in emissions prior to 2050.

Range constraints limit the market potential of electric-powered aircraft. Long development cycles, certification requirements and production timelines constrain the timelines for introducing of hydrogen-powered airplanes globally. These airplanes are not likely to reduce emissions significantly before 2050.

5. Data is our common ground. Collaboration is essential.

The path to decarbonizing aviation is complicated, and there will be many important decisions to make. Cascade is designed to simplify complex topics in order to put data first in these decisions. In doing so, we hope stakeholders from aviation, policy, energy and finance can better understand the path toward net zero and the role each can play in the journey.