Ireland can play a key role as the aviation industry aims for net-zero emissions by 2050, relying on sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), new engine technologies, and carbon offsets, according to Dudley Shanley, Head of Aviation Research at Goodbody.
SAF scalability remains a challenge, with supply constraints and high costs hindering progress. Emerging technologies like hydrogen and electric aircraft are not yet commercially viable for widespread use.
Ireland has an opportunity to become an EU engine maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) hub, leveraging its aircraft leasing expertise. Without breakthroughs in carbon capture or increased offsets, emissions are projected to reach 67pc of 2024 levels by 2050.
Dudley Shanley shared: “Ireland, already a global leader in aircraft leasing, is well-positioned to expand into high-value engine MRO.”
