The GPPS Forum22 in Zurich will dedicate a day for a discussion of the major challenges facing the airline industry. The first two panel sessions on the day will address the impact of commercial aviation on the environment. Aircraft emissions account for about 3% of CO2 emissions in the atmosphere. While the rest of the world is busily reducing emissions by going to electric cars, eliminating power plants, and going to electric rail transportation, action must be taken to reduce pollution resulting from aircraft. The Airline Industry is feeling the pressure and has taken the challenge to become “Carbon Neutral by 2050.”  It is a significant task as it will affect the engine and airplane manufacturers and the operators. During the GPPS Forum22, we will discuss the current initiatives in Europe and the United States to introduce electrical propulsion, improved airframe engine integration, biofuels, and how airline operational changes come into play. Also, essential research needed will be discussed.

Electric commuter aircraft are now positioned to accelerate the transition to low-carbon energy technologies in the transportation sector with the most favorable environmental metrics, enhanced readiness of technologies, and continually lower costs. During the third panel of the day – Hybrid Electric Aircraft – high-level representatives from industry, government, and academia shall address the challenges and opportunities that arise from the innovative technologies, adapted regulatory frameworks,  and new business models in the sector. Further, the panel will discuss socio-technical changes in the market’s supply and demand that will dramatically reshape short-haul air transportation networks.