Pledges Development Of Efficient Aircraft, But Wants Regulations Kept In Check

The General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) announced Wednesday it has joined with other aviation industry groups to issue a paper outlining a set of principles to address aviation and climate change. The signatories of the document represent every facet of the aviation industry, including general aviation, commercial passenger and cargo carriers, airports, aerospace manufacturers, pilots and air traffic controllers.

In releasing the document, GAMA President and CEO Pete Bunce said, "The general aviation manufacturing industry remains committed to producing new airplanes that are significantly more efficient than those they replace. As this document demonstrates, we are convinced we can reduce greenhouse gas emissions without constraining industry growth, but doing so will require a genuine partnership with government."

In the paper entitled "Aviation and Climate Change: The Views of Aviation Industry Stakeholders," GAMA and the other groups recognize their obligation to further limit aviation’s greenhouse gas emissions.

"The establishment of common principles is the industry’s effort to demonstrate its commitment to work with the Obama Administration and Congress as we move forward to tackle the issue of climate change in the United States. We are proud to join virtually every other association in the aviation industry in this endeavor," said Bunce. 

The document outlines general principles for policymakers and others to adhere to, including the importance of cost-benefit and scientific analysis, the preeminent role of the International Civil Aviation Organization, and the need for a comprehensive energy policy. In terms of specific measures, the industry groups call for air traffic control modernization and operational improvements to be accelerated, and for enhanced government participation for new technologies and alternative fuels research.

Finally, any economic measures put in place must not create disincentives for the industry or transfer resources from aviation necessary for environmental improvements.

Among the 19 other signatories to the agreement include the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, Aerospace Industries Association, Helicopter Association International, and Experimental Aircraft Association.

The full paper and the executive summary may be viewed at the FMI link below.

FMI: www.gama.aero/node/8713