The aviation sector is subject to a growing number of climate-related measures aimed at reducing emissions. Among these, the EU Flight Emissions Label (FEL) is unique. While other mechanisms like the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS), CORSIA, and Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) mandates are already shaping airline strategies, the FEL stands out for its transparency at the passenger level. Understanding how the FEL compares with other aviation climate measures is crucial for airlines, regulators, and travelers alike.
What Is the EU Flight Emissions Label (FEL)?
The FEL provides passengers with a clear, standardized view of the greenhouse gas emissions of a flight. Much like the nutritional label on food packaging, it is intended to make emissions information visible at the point of choice.
- Primary audience: Passengers
- Focus: Transparency and comparability
- Impact: Influences customer decisions and encourages airlines to operate more sustainably
FEL vs EU ETS (Emissions Trading System)
The EU ETS is a market-based mechanism that requires airlines to hold allowances for their emissions.
- ETS goal: Put a price on carbon to incentivize reductions
- ETS scope: Airline-level emissions obligations
- FEL difference: Instead of pricing carbon, FEL informs passengers about emissions on each specific flight
Key takeaway: ETS is a financial compliance mechanism, while FEL is a communication and consumer choice tool.
FEL vs CORSIA (Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation)
CORSIA is a global offsetting scheme managed by ICAO, designed to stabilize emissions from international flights.
- CORSIA goal: Offset growth in aviation emissions
- CORSIA scope: Global, with offsetting projects outside aviation
- FEL difference: No offsets involved—only transparent reporting to passengers on actual flight emissions
Key takeaway: CORSIA manages emissions at the system level, while FEL makes the emissions visible to travelers.
FEL vs SAF Mandates
Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) mandates require airlines to blend a certain percentage of SAF into their fuel supply.
- SAF goal: Reduce lifecycle emissions through cleaner fuel
- SAF scope: Operational requirement affecting flight emissions intensity
- FEL difference: Labels reflect the actual fuel blend used and make it transparent to passengers
Key takeaway: SAF mandates directly reduce emissions, while FEL highlights whether and how airlines are using SAF.
FEL vs Airline Voluntary Offsetting Programs
Many airlines already offer voluntary carbon offsetting at booking.
- Voluntary offsets goal: Allow passengers to compensate for emissions
- FEL difference: Provides standardized data upfront, not dependent on voluntary action
Key takeaway: Offsets give passengers an option, but FEL informs all passengers equally.
Why FEL Matters in This Mix
The FEL complements existing climate measures by filling a visibility gap. Other schemes operate at a regulatory, financial, or operational level, often invisible to passengers. FEL brings emissions into the customer’s decision-making process, creating pressure for greener competition among airlines.
VURDHAAN’s Role in Guiding Airlines Through FEL and Beyond
At VURDHAAN, we understand that airlines face a complex web of climate regulations and initiatives. Our consultancy specializes in helping operators:
- Differentiate between compliance mechanisms like ETS, CORSIA, and FEL
- Integrate SAF strategies that improve both emissions performance and FEL ratings
- Develop data-driven reporting systems that ensure accuracy and credibility
- Communicate sustainability efforts in ways that resonate with passengers without risking greenwashing
We believe the EU FEL is not just another requirement—it is a strategic opportunity for airlines to demonstrate leadership in sustainability. With our expertise, airlines can align compliance obligations with brand value, gaining both regulatory readiness and customer trust.