The sector of the airplane transport is faced with an epochal challenge: the decarbonization. This challenge is particularly relevant for Italian carriers and airport managers, who are already working to address the recovery in global demand after the Covid-19 pandemic, especially in the tourism and manufacturing export sectors.
Although aviation's contribution to global CO2 emissions is relatively small, constituting around 2,5% of the total, it is crucial to address the significant increase in emissions in recent years. The recent analyst brief from Cassa Depositi e Prestiti on the state of air transport highlights the need for significant change and identifies several guidelines to guide the sector towards climate neutrality.
Sustainable fuel
One of the most effective contributions, as highlighted in the brief, is represented by the adoption of new sustainable aviation fuels, known as SAF (Sustainable Aviation Fuels). These fuels can contribute up to 65% to the neutrality objective climate change thanks to their ability to reduce CO2 emissions by up to 80% compared to traditional fuels. Furthermore, the brief mentions the development of new propulsion systems, such as electric or hydrogen engines, which could lead to long-term benefits.
Airport energy hubs
The rapid change of airport infrastructure from energy consumers to actual ones energy hubs it is an objective that can be achieved through timely investments. This process begins with the creation of infrastructure for the storage and distribution of sustainable fuels. Furthermore, the introduction of local energy production systems, such as photovoltaic or hydrogen systems, can sustainably meet the growing energy needs of airports and related ground operations.
Increase the connectivity of national airports
The brief also proposes a series of key actions to support the Italian air transport sector. First, it promotes theincrease in connectivity of national airports, suggesting coordinated initiatives between carriers and airports to improve the quality of routes and increase the frequency of flights. A greater connectivity index can have a positive impact on GDP and employment, influencing crucial sectors such as tourism, exports and the internationalization of the economy.
Research and development activities
Furthermore, the brief highlights the importance of enhancing the research and development activities to advance sustainable fuels and alternative propulsion systems. The introduction of innovative digital technologies is considered essential to improve the efficiency of airport operations and optimize the passenger experience.
The legislative and regulatory environment plays a crucial role in promoting green investments and digital in the air transport sector. A clear and shared roadmap towards sustainability goals is essential to ensure a rapid and coherent transition.
The key role of the National Airport Plan
Finally, the National Airport Plan (PNA), awaiting review, is identified as an important tool to further direct airport managers' interventions towards sustainability, digitalisation and intermodality. This plan should be part of an overall redesign of the strategic framework of the national airport system, considering the coexistence of airports of different sizes, with different degrees of connectivity and growth prospects.
