Dublin airport operator DAA has unveiled a new incentive scheme to encourage airlines to operate aircraft which emit lower levels of CO2.
The airport plans to give airlines flying more efficient aircraft a “low emissions discount” on aeronautical charges, while those operating “high emission” aircraft will have to pay higher charges.
DAA said it will “shortly” begin consultation on the plan which will include a new 25 per cent discount on all runway charges for airlines operating the “most environmentally friendly aircraft at all times of the day”. The airport hopes the new incentive-based initiative will go live within the next six months.
The move is the latest phase in DAA’s environmental charging strategy, which has already seen higher charges being levied on airlines operating noisier aircraft at night.
DAA said that carriers are projected to benefit from discounts of more than €30 million on published charges this year through its environmental incentives – with Ryanair and Aer Lingus set to “reap the largest share” of these reduced fees.
Kenny Jacobs, CEO of DAA, added: “We are acutely aware of the scale of the task of achieving the government’s target of a 51 per cent reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions at our airports by 2030, on our way to our ultimate goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
“We are fully committed to delivering on these targets while in parallel, working alongside aviation stakeholders and our airline partners to support the sector’s transition to a more sustainable model for the future and addressing our Scope 3 emissions.”
Last year, DAA reduced its carbon emissions by 24 per cent at Dublin airport and by 38 per cent at Cork airport, which the company also operates, compared with 2018 levels. This was achieved through energy management processes, LED upgrade work and a fleet replacement programme.
DAA is currently working on the introduction of a new reporting standard and developing an updated ESG action plan to be introduced in 2024.
“Following on from the North Runway development, we aim to progress at pace our planned €1.9 billion capital investment programme in sustainability projects, a refurbished terminal, new piers, gates, stand and transfer facilities that will ensure a compelling service and lasting legacy for future generations of air travellers in and out of Ireland,” added Jacobs.