Archived press release

Airlines flying longer distances to avoid air traffic charges

3 December 2007

Friends of the Earth has expressed strong concern following BBC revelations that some airlines are avoiding air traffic control charges by flying longer, more indirect routes to and from the UK, and consequently pumping out more environmentally damaging carbon dioxide.

Aviation is the UK's fastest growing source of carbon dioxide emissions, and scientists have warned that air travel alone could be responsible for all of Britain's carbon dioxide emissions target by 2050.

Friends of the Earth is also calling on the Government to include Britain's share of international aviation and shipping emissions in its climate change bill, which is currently being discussed by Parliament. Friends of the Earth has led the campaign for the proposed new law which will be the first national legislation anywhere in the world to set legally-binding targets for cutting carbon dioxide emissions.

Richard Dyer, Friends of the Earth's aviation campaigner said:

"Despite their green claims, some airlines are clearly causing unnecessary pollution, and increasing their contribution to climate change. Action must be taken to stop this outrageous practice by removing these incentives to pollute.

"Unless we tackle growing emissions from the aviation industry UK targets for tackling climate change are unlikely to be met. There should be a freeze on airport expansion, and increased investment in high-speed rail, to provide a real alternative to short-haul flights. And Britain's share of international aviation emissions must be included in the Government's new climate change law."

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/7124021.stm

For further information please contact the Friends of the Earth media team on 020 7566 1649.

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Archived press release

Airlines flying longer distances to avoid air traffic charges

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