Strategic Objective C1 – Environmental Protection – Technological and Operational Measures /ASBUs

 

The 38th Session of the Assembly welcomed progress in the area of technological and operational measures, including further work towards the establishment of a CO₂ certification Standard for aircraft, which has been undertaken by CAEP, aiming to finalize analyses on an appropriate regulatory limit for the Standard by late 2015.

A new manual entitled Operational Opportunities to Reduce Fuel Burn and Emissions which will replace Circular 303 was developed and recommended by CAEP for publication. The manual contains information on current practices followed by States, aircraft operators, aircraft manufacturers, airport operators, air navigation service providers (ANSPs) and other industry organizations. This includes information on: airport operations; maintenance; weight reduction; the effect of payload on fuel efficiency; air traffic management; flight and route planning; and other aircraft operations.

A new guidance document called Environmental Assessment Guidance for Proposed Air Traffic Management Operational Changes was also developed and recommended by CAEP for publication. This document focuses on environmental impacts assessment (including both engine emissions and noise) related to proposed operational procedures changes, airspace redesigns, and other similar operational aspects.

In coordination with key stakeholders, ICAO quantified the fuel burn savings associated with the implementation of the Block 0 ASBUs. These results will be published in the inaugural Air Navigation Report in 2014. The Organization is also working on a compendium of illustrated “best practice” environmental assessment case studies that demonstrate the application of Environmental Assessment Guidance for Proposed Air Traffic Management Operational Changes.

The CAEP Steering Group agreed that data be collected in order to conduct a refined ASBU Block 0 environmental benefits analysis, within CAEP.