The International Air Transport Association (IATA) is calling for a globally standardised approach to airline emissions reporting as passenger demand for transparent carbon data continues to grow.

According to IATA research conducted in April 2026, 48% of travellers, particularly business passengers, regularly check flight-related carbon emissions when booking trips.

Michael Schneider, IATA Assistant Director Sustainability Programs, said accurate emissions information depends on reliable airline data and a consistent global methodology.

 He warned that differing regional approaches, including those being developed in Europe, could create fragmentation, increase administrative burdens and raise costs for airlines.

IATA highlighted its CO2 Connect platform, launched in 2022, as a solution for accurate emissions calculations based on real operational data from 110 airlines.

 The system accounts for factors including aircraft type, fuel consumption, load factors, cabin configuration and sustainable aviation fuel usage.

Airlines are increasingly adopting CO2 Connect to provide passengers with emissions information at the booking stage.

Gulf Air uses CO2 Connect data through software provider Chooose, while Spain’s Plus Ultra displays emissions details on its website.

IATA said cooperation between governments and the aviation sector is essential to establish a consistent global framework that improves transparency and helps travellers make informed choices. -TradeArabia News Service