The political landscape has a profound impact on the pace and direction of aviation’s decarbonisation journey. As administrations change, so too do policy priorities, regulatory frameworks, and international commitments — creating both opportunities and challenges for the aviation sector. This opening session will explore the potential implications of shifting political currents, focusing on how they could reshape global aviation’s path to net zero.
Key topics will include the future SAF and how changes in government support, tax incentives, and production targets could either accelerate or hinder adoption. Will we see a new wave of mandates, or a reassessment of costs? The session will also examine the future of CORSIA and the broader international carbon market. What might be the ramifications of the new US administration for CORSIA, a critical year with the upcoming ICAO General Assembly, what might this mean for regional schemes like the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS), and for global alignment on efforts to reduce global aviation emissions?
Geopolitical tensions and shifting trade policies — including the potential for new tariffs affecting business travel — could further disrupt aviation’s recovery and investment in sustainable projects. As national populism rises and governments reassess spending priorities, how can the aviation sector secure funding for decarbonisation projects and maintain investor confidence? Leading policymakers, industry executives, and sustainability experts will weigh the advantages and disadvantages of political change. Will increased flexibility and regional independence open new opportunities for innovation, or will fragmented regulation create barriers to progress? How can the EU and UK position themselves strategically to lead on sustainable aviation in this evolving landscape?
This session will provide a strategic overview of the intersection between politics and sustainable aviation, setting the stage for deeper discussions throughout the summit on aligning industry and policy for a more resilient and sustainable future.
