On Friday, June 30, 2023, a U.S. appeals court denied a challenge to the first federal regulations on greenhouse gas emissions from airplanes. The regulations were finalized in January 2021. They do not require airlines to make any fleet modifications. Environmental groups and several Democrat-led states filed a lawsuit. They argued that the rules were inadequate in reducing emissions from the aviation sector.
Despite objections, the appeals court ruled that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) had adequately taken climate change into account when formulating the regulations. Additionally, the court affirmed the EPA’s authority to regulate greenhouse gas emissions from airplanes, even though the Clean Air Act does not explicitly mention aircraft.
While this ruling represents a setback for environmental groups, it does not mark the end of their legal options. The groups still have the possibility of appealing the decision to the Supreme Court. Meanwhile, the EPA is expected to collaborate with international partners in developing more ambitious standards for airplane emissions.
The United States has set a target of achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions from the U.S. aviation sector by 2050. However, reaching this goal will necessitate substantial changes in aircraft design and operations. Although the EPA’s regulations are a step in the right direction, they alone are insufficient. More assertive measures will be required to meet the 2050 objective.
Canada’s New Work Permit Makes it Easier for H-1B Visa Holders
