Air transport performs many important functions in modern societies. Aviation facilitates economic and cultural exchanges and is a significant source of employment and growth in many regions. However, aviation also contributes to global climate change, and its contribution is increasing. While the EU's total greenhouse gas emissions fell by 3 % from 1990 to 2002, emissions from international aviation increased by almost 70 %. Even though there has been significant improvement in aircraft technology and operational efficiency this has not been enough to neutralise the effect of increased traffic, and the growth in emissions is likely to continue in the decades to come.

On 27 th September 2005 , the European Commission adopted a Communication outlining plans to reduce the impact of aviation on climate change. The Communication recommends that aviation emissions should be included in the EU Emissions Trading Scheme. This is part of a comprehensive approach which includes research into cleaner air transport, better air traffic management and the removal of legal barriers to taxing aircraft fuel.

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