The Global Call for Action
In Montreal, the International Air Transport Association (IATA), along with leading carbon market stakeholders, has made an urgent appeal to governments worldwide. Their request focuses on one crucial step, speeding up the release of carbon credits that airlines need to meet their climate commitments under the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation, known as CORSIA.
This move is not just about meeting regulatory goals; it is about ensuring aviation continues on a credible path toward net zero.
Why Letters of Authorization Matter
A key part of this process lies in the issuance of Letters of Authorization (LoAs). These are official documents from host countries that confirm carbon credits, or Internationally Transferred Mitigation Outcomes (ITMOs), can be used under CORSIA. Without LoAs, airlines face a shortage of eligible units, putting both compliance and climate finance at risk.
When LoAs are in place, they ensure every tonne of emission reduction is counted once, preserving the environmental integrity of CORSIA. This single administrative step can unlock climate finance for developing nations and fund renewable and efficiency projects globally.
Closing the Demand-Supply Gap
Between 2024 and 2026, airlines are expected to require over 146 million eligible emission units. However, current supply stands at only a fraction of that. To bridge this gap, IATA has released guidance and practical tools to help governments issue LoAs quickly and effectively.
A Shared Responsibility
CORSIA represents collaboration in its truest form, linking international aviation with sustainable development. The faster governments act, the more effectively the industry can drive environmental and economic progress across regions.
Conclusion
The message is clear: enabling the release of CORSIA-eligible units is not a technical formality; it is a catalyst for global climate finance. By acting now, governments can help aviation maintain momentum toward a more sustainable, low-carbon future.