Decarbonising Aviation — [Sir Gary Streeter in the Chair]

Congratulates the hon. Lady for securing the debate and suggests a frequent flyer levy as one of the best ways to decarbonise aviation by reducing demand, pointing out that 15% of people take 70% of flights. Asked if the jet zero strategy overly relies on carbon offsets, which climate scientists argue are limited. Emphasised treating the climate emergency as a real emergency and not engaging in accounting games.

As an aircraft engineer, Dave Doogan highlighted the lack of investment in sustainable aviation technology by the UK Government. He emphasised that current battery technology is limited for medium and long-haul flights and suggested focusing on developing hydrogen-powered aircraft instead. Doogan also mentioned past successful projects like the de Havilland Comet and called for substantial government support to facilitate such advancements.

He praised the hon. Member for Putney for securing today's debate on decarbonising aviation, highlighting that achieving net zero targets requires action in various fronts including aviation. He discussed the British Airways' perfect flight using sustainable jet fuel, demonstrating a 62% reduction in CO2 emissions compared to similar flights 11 years ago. He also mentioned the importance of airspace modernisation and modal shift from air to rail for shorter journeys while acknowledging the demand for medium and long-haul air travel. I very much hear what the Minister is sayings, but could he give an indication of the timescales for the four consultations? When will they report back and when will we see action?

Jim Shannon highlighted the importance of Belfast City airport and other aviation facilities in his constituency, noting their role as major employers. He argued for the need to support sustainable aviation and called on the Government to extend funding for the Aerospace Technology Institute to facilitate technological innovations such as hydrogen power. Shannon emphasised the necessity of finding a balance between environmental concerns and economic needs, urging that any changes must be supported by adequate financial measures to ensure businesses do not relocate elsewhere. Intervened by congratulating Wera Hobhouse from Bath and acknowledging the debate context.

McDonnell expressed his concern about the negative impact of Heathrow's expansion on the local community, economy, and jobs. He advocated for an aviation strategy that addresses climate change and emphasized the importance of minimizing existing harms through taxation, assessing business travel necessity, and managing demand. McDonnell also stressed the need for investment in research and development of alternative fuels and a just transition plan to support aviation communities.

Ms McCarthy highlighted the urgent need to decarbonise aviation, noting that it accounted for 7.3% of UK emissions in 2018. She expressed disappointment with the lack of progress on transport emissions and emphasised the difficulty in decarbonising aviation but acknowledged potential technological solutions such as sustainable aviation fuels and airspace modernisation. Ms McCarthy questioned the Government's commitment to funding future technologies and infrastructure development for electric or hydrogen planes, while also raising concerns over carbon offsetting strategies and their reliance on uncertain technology. Are trade unions involved at any of the Jet Zero Council discussions?

Thanks the hon. Lady for securing the debate and discusses the longevity of aircraft usage, suggesting financial incentives from the Government to encourage airlines to choose more sustainable aircraft in the future. Ferrier questioned whether the Government was properly supporting the aviation industry's efforts to decarbonise, given its economic challenges due to the pandemic, while also ensuring it contributes to net zero goals.

I argue that the aviation industry must take urgent action to reduce its carbon footprint, and I urge the Government to provide clear guidelines and support for this transition.

Congratulated the hon. Member for Putney on securing an important debate about unrestrained aviation growth impacting health and welfare. Highlighted the need for demand management alongside technological development, questioning the Government's reliance on new technologies without a backup plan. Called for a review of ANPS to rule out Heathrow expansion. Discussed potential for hydrogen-powered aircraft and electric flights as promising developments in decarbonisation efforts.

We need a balance between reducing emissions and maintaining connectivity. The Government should consider sustainable aviation fuels and electrification as part of the solution.

Discussed the need for immediate action on reducing aviation emissions, highlighting the excessive environmental cost of flying compared to rail travel. Advocated for synthetic fuels made from green hydrogen and carbon dioxide as a sustainable alternative to traditional jet fuel. Suggested banning short-haul flights where direct rail alternatives exist and called for reforming air passenger duty to target frequent fliers and introduce VAT on first-class and business travel. Is the Minister looking seriously at progress in the production of synthetic fuels?