EBACE2024 underscored the industry’s commitment to net-zero emissions with a three-day Sustainability Summit, a focus on alternative propulsion technologies, and the introduction of new sustainability standards. Highlights included Bertrand Piccard’s green hydrogen-powered global flight project, the first outdoor display of AAM aircraft, and an innovation pavilion showcasing next-generation planes. Discussions identified Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and the book-and-claim system as critical for reducing lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80 per cent. Jet Aviation provided a 35 per cent SAF blend at Geneva Airport, marking its third year of SAF provision for EBACE. Business jet CEOs emphasised strategies like increased SAF production, low-emission propulsion, and industry collaboration to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. Boeing Business Jets announced its leadership in NASA’s sustainable flight demonstrator project. The EU’s ReFuelEU Aviation Initiative mandates SAF use, starting with a 2 per cent share at EU airports by 2025. An Exhibitor Sustainability Pledge also promoted meaningful steps toward a greener event, with exhibitors committing to actions like carbon offsets and the use of recycled materials.

The launch of the Standards & Training for Aviation Responsibility and Sustainability (S.T.A.R.S.) programme underscored the commitment to sustainability and positioning business aviation at the forefront of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. It involves a tiered approach to policy development and implementation, focusing on greenhouse gas emissions, waste management, inclusiveness, and data privacy. At EBACE2024, EBAA also joined the CLIMBING.FAST. campaign, aiming for net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. Jet Aviation and Signature Aviation distributed SAF, achieving significant carbon savings.