Measure Would Allow EPA, FAA To Set Emissions Standards

Airlines would be required to fly aircraft with engines meeting a more strict emissions standard under a bill set to be introduced in the U.S. Senate this week.

Reuters reports that the bill only requires that the U.S. EPA and FAA write standards "applicable to emissions of greenhouse gases from new aircraft and new engines used in aircraft by December 31, 2012," according to a draft copy of the bill. The two agencies would cooperate in crafting the standards.

The bill would require the government to consider technology that will be available when the standards go into effect when crafting them. It must also look at "cost, energy, and safety factors associated with the application of such technology."

While engine manufacturers have been working on more efficient NextGen engines for some time, FAA, the airlines, and manufacturing groups have expressed concerns about EU calls for U.S. airlines to meet their tougher emissions standards. While the most popular proposals in congress would actually exceed the EU targets, airlines have said the changes would significantly increase their costs.

Airline trade groups say they will defer comment until they have had a chance to see the bill that is introduced.

FMI: www.senate.gov