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Global warming results from an increase in the greenhouse effect. Through their various activities, man-made activities increase the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere and trap more solar radiation.


Air transport has a moderate impact
Confronting the challenge of climate change
Reduced room for manoeuvre



A tonne of burnt fuel produces 3.15 tonnes of CO2
What is the impact of different gases on global warming ?

Air transport has a moderate impact


Although air transport has had a moderate impact on climate change (its contribution to the greenhouse effect is thought to be 3.5%), Air France is doing everything it can to reduce the rate of increase of its CO2 emissions (the only greenhouse gases targeted by the Kyoto protocol – not applying to international aviation - from aircraft engines).

CO2 is mostly produced when cruising (79.3%) but also when climbing after take-off (14.4%). Note that 81% of Air France’s emissions come from intercontinental aircraft that account for 20% of all flights. There is no substitute method of transport for either passenger or cargo flights carrying express goods such as valuables or perishable foodstuffs.



Confronting the challenge of climate change


The Company consider legitimate that the airline industry should assume its share of responsibility regarding climate change.

The Group has already engaged and integrated major environmental achievements in its strategy. Air France-KLM proposes a Climate Action Plan to pursue its commitments. This plan was approved by the Board of directors in March, 2007.

This plan includes six commitments:




Reduced room for manoeuvre


The role of CO2 in the greenhouse effect has been fully identified by the scientific community. CO2 emissions are directly proportional to fuel consumption.

So the goal of reducing CO2 emissions merges with that of business performance, since jetfuel has always been one of airlines’ biggest cost items.

To reduce its CO2 emissions, Air France tries to cut fuel consumption by acquiring the most fuel-efficient aircraft where possible, applying a fuel saving plan, renewing its ground vehicle fleet, and optimizing its procedures.


See Air France initiatives

However, demand for mobility puts limits on these efforts. The impact of higher traffic cannot be completely offset, despite substantial investments and the application of new technology solutions. 

Moreover, much less is known about the impact of other aircraft emissions at high altitudes.

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