Observatories confirm that in Spain a 25% reduction in CO₂ emissions in aviation is achieved

13-01-25

The Observatory of Safety, Efficiency and Sustainability of Air Operations, made up by ENAIRE, the Official College of Commercial Aviation Pilots (COPAC), the Professional Association of Air Traffic Controllers (APROCTA) and the Professional Union of Air Traffic Controllers (UPCA), has recorded in 2024 a decrease of more than 25% in CO₂ emissions in aviation, equivalent to a saving of more than 6,000 tons. 

This achievement is the result of more than 5,000 direct flight observations conducted throughout the year, focused on identifying and applying good practices that improve operational efficiency. Despite a record increase in air traffic during 2024, operational efficiency has been maintained, demonstrating that it is possible to combine growth and sustainability in the aeronautical sector. 

The measures implemented to optimize and manage airspace, promoted by ENAIRE in the national plan, have been fundamental to achieve these results. The analysis of data at key airports such as Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas, Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat, Palma, Málaga-Costa del Sol and Gran Canaria has made it possible to assess the environmental impact and to adjust operations to minimize emissions. 

In addition, the Observatory has fostered collaboration between pilots and air traffic controllers through visits to air traffic control towers and centers. In 2024, visits were made to ENAIRE's control centers in Madrid, Barcelona and Gran Canaria, and for 2025 additional visits are planned to the control towers of Barcelona, Malaga and Gran Canaria. These initiatives seek to improve mutual understanding and to share experiences which contribute to the safety and efficiency of air operations. 

Since its creation in 2019, the Observatory has accumulated close to 15,000 observations, providing a valuable database to identify best practices and areas for improvement in operational safety and environmental sustainability. Currently, it has the active participation of 36 COPAC chartered pilots and 24 ENAIRE air traffic controllers. By 2025, the incorporation of more pilot-observers and air traffic controllers is foreseen, increasing the capacity for data collection and analysis in the monitoring committees. 

This progress is part of ENAIRE's commitment to environmental sustainability, reflected in its Green Sky Environmental Sustainability Plan, which seeks to deepen measures to achieve greater fuel savings and reduce CO₂ emissions, moving towards environmental responsibility and excellence. 

The Observatory for Safety, Efficiency and Sustainability in Air Operations has demonstrated that, through collaboration and the implementation of best practices, it is possible to achieve a more efficient and environmentally friendly aviation, even in contexts of air traffic growth.