While the aviation sector is demonstrating strong growth in passenger numbers and cargo volumes, the pathway to net-zero emissions is becoming more challenging. Industry leaders are confronting rising clean-technology costs, geopolitical disruptions, trade tensions and growing pressure to decarbonize, while also seeking to double down on safety, operational efficiency and affordability.

Despite ongoing challenges to multilateral action, the sector remains robust in its support for the International Civil Aviation Organization’s goal of net-zero aviation by 2050. This report includes insights from a specially commissioned survey of senior aviation executives and highlights how a more pragmatic approach to sustainability is set to dominate industry discussions during 2026.

To deliver net-zero, the industry will need to commercialize sustainable aviation fuels, transform airports into economic, digital and energy hubs, and expand market mechanisms such as book-and-claim. In addition, greater regulatory stability and coordinated action across regions are needed to accelerate progress at scale.