Burning fossil fuels can lead to high carbon emissions and a rapidly warming planet. Reducing those emissions and otherwise making jet travel more sustainable is critical.
Aviation companies, both large and small, are responding with green initiatives. Understanding what they are can help you find the right partner for your next flight.
Sustainability is critical in the private aviation sector as clients increasingly prioritize environmentally responsible choices, and the industry recognizes its role in a greener future. At Element Aviation, we invest in modern aircraft and sustainable fuels. We’re also looking for new ways to help protect the Earth.
The Environmental Impact of Aviation
All forms of travel can have an impact on the environment, but flight is a major offender. Private flights, in particular, are harmful.
Researchers say private jets are 5 to 14 times more polluting than commercial planes. In one study of data from 2023, researchers found that private flights contributed at least 15.6 Mt CO2 in direct emissions.
This problem isn’t fading, as more people are using private flights. In the UK alone in 2022, private jets took off an average of once every six minutes.
Industry Commitments to Sustainability
Air transport professionals understand that their work can lead to environmental damage. They’re responding in significant ways.
For example, in 2021, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) passed a resolution committing its member airlines to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
Similarly, the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA) was developed as a global measure that’s designed to limit carbon emissions from international flights.
Sustainable Aviation Fuel
One important contribution to green aviation involves the development of new forms of fuel. Sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) is made from feedstocks instead of fossil fuels, and it can be used to power all sorts of aircraft.
According to data from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), 24.5 million gallons of SAF were consumed in 2023.
United Airlines is one such customer. Less than 1% of their overall fuel consumption is SAF, but the company hopes to use more in the future.
Carbon Offset Programs
Carbon offsetting involves investing in carbon reduction projects to compensate for the carbon emissions associated with the flight. The IATA says more than 50 airlines use programs like this.
Offsets don’t reduce emissions directly. However, they can help other programs to grow, which could reduce the impact of a flight.
Carbon offsets don’t help to reduce the impact of flights as much as sustainable fuels do. It’s smart for companies to use all the tools available, but it’s best to emphasize those that reduce emissions directly.
Innovations in Aircraft Technology
Changes in technology can also help mitigate the environmental impact of flights. Current changes include the following:
- Electric- and hydrogen-powered aircraft
- Lightweight materials for plane construction
- Advanced aerodynamic designs for aircraft
- Improved engine fuel efficiency
- Optimized flight operation
Airlines Leading the Green Initiative
Major airlines are examining the data and making changes to their operations and programs. These are a few of the companies embracing green technology:
United Airlines
United Airlines has committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. Importantly, they’re trying to accomplish this goal without using carbon offsets.
United Airlines is using efficient aircraft, trying sustainable fuels, and collaborating with partners to help them streamline their operations.
JetBlue Airways
JetBlue Airways is working hard to achieve carbon-neutral status for all domestic flights. They’re also looking at incorporating new sustainability initiatives.
Initiatives include reusing materials, trying new fuels, and investing in sustainable aircraft startups.
Emirates
Emirates has invested in new aircraft, and the company claims to have one of the youngest fleets in the industry. All of the aircraft meet emission standards.
Emirates also uses flight-planning systems to ensure their routes are optimized and don’t need too much fuel. The company also uses alternate fuels on some flights.
Harbour Air
Harbour Air is the first carbon-neutral airline. The company uses a combination of carbon offsets, new fuels, and on-the-ground optimizations to ensure they don’t use more fuel than needed. They also partner with companies like Ostrom Climate to continue to innovate.
Charter Operators Embracing Sustainability
Jet charter companies are integrating sustainable practices into their operations. Each company is doing something a little different, but the result can include optimized flights and a reduced level of emissions.
Wheels Up
Private company Wheels Up has launched a SAF program. Customers can choose this option for their flights when booking, ensuring they take direct action against climate change.
VistaJet
Private company VistaJet has taken many steps toward sustainability. Those steps include the following:
- Maximizing their fleet use
- Adding new aircraft with high environmental ratings
- Using carbon offsets
- Advocating for SAF
JetLevel Aviation
JetLevel Aviation has committed to fleet modernization, focusing on acquiring aircraft equipped with reduced emissions technology. The company also partners with operators who prioritize eco-friendly flying.
Challenges & the Road Ahead
While airline operators are doing their part to reduce the impact of flights on the environment, more work must be done. After all, these steps just reduce emissions without eliminating them.
Companies must continue to innovate and grow, looking for new ways to use fuels that are eco-friendly. Consumers must also demand change from their operators to ensure they keep the environment in mind.
How You Can Contribute
As a consumer, it’s critical to choose partners with robust sustainability programs. If you find a company like this, be willing to pay a little more for your flights. This small increase in price could entice the company to further embrace the work.
You can also pay close attention to changes in green innovation. Instead of accepting simple carbon offsets, look for ways to support new aircraft and fuels.
Go Green With Element Aviation
At Element Aviation, we recognize that consumers are concerned about the environmental impact of air travel. We are too.
We’re always looking for ways to make our flights greener and more sustainable. We hope you’ll join us and make the world a better place.
Fact Checked & Reviewed By:
Chris Blanchard has spent more than two decades in the private aviation industry. He began his career with an on-demand charter operator and played a critical role in transforming a small operation into one of the largest and most successful in the country. His experience and commitment to excellence make him a trusted innovator in the field of private aviation.
This Article Contains 15 Cited Sources
Last modified 30 Oct 2025