GENEVA – The aviation industry remains at a critical crossroads as it works to reduce its carbon footprint and meet global sustainability targets, all while navigating increasing regulatory pressure. Responsible for around 2% of global carbon emissions, according to the World Economic Forum, and with air travel demand projected to grow by 4.3% annually according to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), the industry must act swiftly.

In a bold continuation of their longstanding collaboration, SITA, the global leader in air transport technology, and the Arab Air Carriers Organization (AACO) are driving forward SITA Eco Mission, an innovative, data-driven solution that will assist airlines on their journey to become more sustainable and to demonstrate their efforts. The partnership aims to equip airlines with the tools they need to meet the key challenges in the industry, which include gathering accurate, real-time data on emissions and fuel consumption; reducing operational costs related to CORSIA, EU ETS, ReFuelEU and other sustainability levers; and compliance with complex environmental regulations. More so, the solution will support airlines in moving beyond a tactical, reactive approach, helping with smarter, strategic environmental management across three key airline functions – Compliance, Strategy & Finance and Flight Operations.

David Lavorel, CEO of SITA, commented: "Our ongoing collaboration with AACO is a testament to what can be achieved when industry expertise meets technological innovation. As we face unprecedented environmental challenges, achieving sustainability in aviation demands more than compliance—it calls for a visionary approach. Together with AACO, we are advancing a solution that tackles these challenges directly, paving the way for a fresh, practical approach to environmental responsibility that moves the industry closer to its goals."

As the aviation industry adapts to increasingly complex regulations, such as the European Union’s ReFuelEU Aviation mandate and ICAO’s CORSIA, airlines must balance emissions reduction with cost management. The continued partnership between SITA and AACO is focused on delivering the data-driven solution needed to simplify and automate compliance and reporting, streamline data collection and analysis, reduce the costs associated with becoming more environmentally friendly and help airline plan their future operations so that they can meet their cost and emission targets.

Abdul Wahab Teffaha, Secretary General of AACO, added: " AACO is really proud that cooperating with SITA on addressing the need of the aviation industry to manage the environmental sustainability requirements and be completely transparent to regulators and customers, has delivered the “Eco Mission” solution by SITA in record time. Late last year, we signed with SITA a Memorandum of Understanding to test and undergo a proof of concept for Eco Mission with a number of AACO members. The joint work between AACO members’ teams and SITA’s delivered within a year the solution we are announcing today. Their work is invaluable, not only to AACO airlines, but also to the airlines of the world. This is a step in the right direction in the journey of airlines’ quest to deliver on their environmental sustainability objectives."

For further information (not for publication) contact:
SITA
Charles Font
Corporate Communications
Email: charles.font@sita.aero

Patricia Madrigal
Corporate Communications
Email: patricia.madrigal@sita.aero

About SITA

SITA is the air transport industry's IT provider, delivering solutions for airlines, airports, aircraft and governments. Our technology powers more seamless, safe, secure and sustainable air travel.

With around 2,500 customers, SITA’s solutions drive operational efficiencies at more than 1,000 airports while delivering the promise of the connected aircraft to customers of over 18,000 aircraft globally. SITA also provides technology solutions that help more than 70 governments strike the balance of secure borders and seamless travel. Its communications network connects every corner of the globe, and SITA bridges 45% of the air transport community’s data exchange.

In 2023, the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) approved SITA’s near-term and long-term emission reduction targets. These science-based targets are pivotal in guiding the company’s climate actions to curtail greenhouse gas emissions effectively. SITA is also developing solutions to help the aviation industry meet its carbon reduction objectives, including reduced fuel burn and greater operational efficiencies.

In 2024, SITA acquired Materna IPS, leader in passenger handling, to create the world’s most powerful passenger portfolio for airports and digital travel. SITA then acquired ASISTIM, to offer a fully-fledged airline flight Operations Control Center managed service. The company also launched SmartSea to give the maritime industry access to the same advanced technology that is transforming air travel. The launch comes as part of SITA’s growth in the cruise and rail industries, as well Urban Air Mobility, such as Vertiports.

SITA is 100% owned by the industry and driven by its needs. It is one of the most internationally diverse companies, providing services in over 200 countries and territories.

Go to www.sita.aero for more information.