The aviation industry is taking the lead in combating global warming, and its main weapon is efficient, cutting-edge technology. A new generation of engines and airframes is projected to yield quantum improvements not only in reducing fuel consumption, but also in lowering emissions, noise, operation and maintenance costs, all while bettering performance.
These new products are expected to enter service in the next five years. When they do, the majority of the fleet will still comprise technology ranging from the 1960s to the present and remain in service for decades to come. Nevertheless, as we move forward to accommodate ever more aircraft in the airspace system, fuel economy will be essential to keeping aviation's overall output of CO2--the principal greenhouse gas believed to be accelerating global warming--at the 2-percent level it is now. Aviation is earnestly pursuing responsible environmental initiatives.
Source: Aviation Week, http://www.aviationweek.com