ATW Daily News

ICAO adopts framework document on alternative fuels

Monday November 23, 2009

ICAO conference in Rio de Janeiro last week adopted a "Global Framework on Aviation and Alternative Fuels" endorsing the use of sustainable alternative fuels for aviation, "particularly the use of drop-in fuels in the short to mid-term." The "dynamic Web-based document" will be located on the ICAO website and "will serve as a global platform for the sharing of information, best practices and future initiatives by ICAO member states and the air transport industry." It will be updated regularly, the organization said. The GAAF is part of a declaration adopted by ICAO last month at the High Level Meeting on International Aviation and Climate Change (ATWOnline, Oct. 12). It will be brought to the UN climate summit in Copenhagen next month and presented to ICAO's triennial assembly in the fall of 2010.

"Within 10 years, 10% of the fuel used by international aviation could come from sustainable alternative sources. This will not only substantially reduce the impact of aviation emissions on the environment but will also help address issues of economics and supply security," ICAO Secretary General Raymond Benjamin said. One recommendation is for ICAO to organize a meeting of member states, "financial institutions, fuel producers, feedstock producers, aircraft manufacturers and operators" to consider issues of cost and financing alternative fuels infrastructure projects and "incentives" to overcome initial market hurdles.

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