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.

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:

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.