The UK Civil Aviation Authority has published a new framework setting out guidance and principles on the information airlines and other booking organisations should provide to passengers when it comes to carbon emissions.
New guidelines would allow passengers access to such information when booking flights with those who sell or advertise flights either departing or arriving from UK airports.
The information is already available on a select number of flight comparison websites and in other sectors, such as rail.
Overall, the framework aims to present emission information in a clear and consistent format to passengers at point of booking; encourage improved transparency in the aviation sector, based on real and up to date data reflecting factors like aircraft type, seat choice and fuel use; support the industry in its wider efforts toward achieving net-zero emissions, with room for innovation and insights to improve the data as science evolves; and provide a list of preferred methodologies for travel providers to calculate emissions information for consumers.
Tim Johnson, Director at the UK Civil Aviation Authority said:Airlines providing understandable and comparable emissions data will enable passengers to make more informed travel decisions.
We encourage all airlines and travel companies that advertise or sell flights in the UK which depart from or arrive at UK airports to follow this guidance.
The introduction of the framework follows a consultation held in 2024 and builds on an earlier Call for Evidence in 2023, with the CAA expecting airlines to adopt the guidance by April 2027.
Going forward; the UK Civil Aviation Authority will be reviewing flight booking providers – including applicable airlines, travel agents and flight comparison websites - after this date, and reporting on progress.
