The European Commission has introduced the Flight Emissions Label (FEL), a novel program that aims to increase transparency and accountability in the aviation sector. To be implemented from July 2025, FEL will make it possible for passengers to get standardized data on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions on flights both within and out of the European Union (EU). This voluntary program allows travelers to make more informed choices based on environmental impacts by comparing different airlines and supporting the EU’s larger goals of sustainability and the reduction of carbon footprint of aviation.
The FEL program comes at a time when consumer demand for transparency and accountability in sustainability efforts is growing. By offering harmonized emissions data, the initiative seeks to eliminate misleading claims of environmental responsibility, often referred to as greenwashing, in the aviation industry. “This label ensures fair, harmonized emissions reporting and supports aviation’s net-zero goals,” the European Commission stated, highlighting the FEL’s potential to drive meaningful change in the sector.
Under the FEL, the participating airlines will calculate and report their emissions using a harmonized methodology that will be developed by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency. It will calculate various factors, such as the type of aircraft, average passenger count, freight volume, and type of aviation fuel used. EASA will oversee the program to ensure compliance with international standards. The actual consumption data will provide accurate and transparent estimations of emissions.
Starting from July 2025, passengers booking their flights online will see data on emissions displayed alongside flight options through a dedicated logo and detailed information. This would not only promote accountability but also push airlines to embrace cleaner technologies and practices, such as fleet renewal, operational efficiency, and the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF). Through this kind of promotion, the FEL aligns with the commitment of the EU towards reaching net-zero emissions and establishing a more sustainable future for air travel.
The initiative also aims to ensure fair competition by holding airlines to consistent reporting standards. This will foster trust among consumers and encourage the industry to embrace greener practices. Additionally, the FEL is expected to enhance the adoption of SAF and other innovative solutions that reduce the environmental impact of aviation.
The required data to participate in the program should be submitted by airlines to EASA by February 1, 2025. First FEL certificates will come into effect on July 1, 2025, and will start being effective for flights conducted during winter 2025. As the program is optional but marks an important milestone on the road toward making the aviation industry sustainable, and equipping consumers with information enabling them to make more responsible travel choices, it shall be highly influential.
The introduction of the Flight Emissions Label is a witness to the EU’s strong commitment to combating climate change. Empowering passengers and prompting airlines to become more environment-friendly, FEL therefore creates a clear path towards reducing the environmental impact of air travel while increasing transparency within the sector. This approach not only responds to short-term needs for accountability but also lays down the future for a more sustainable aviation industry.