Aviation strategy aims to help Scotland achieve ‘jet zero’ targets – minister

The Scottish Government has published a strategy to boost the aviation sector while meeting key net zero targets.

Connectivity minister Jim Fairlie said the new aviation statement will consider how to secure lifeline services in the Highlands and islands while considering increasing the production and use of sustainable fuel.

With aviation policy reserved to the UK Government, Scottish ministers have said they will continue to “influence” the nationwide “jet zero” strategy which aims to deliver net zero across domestic flights by 2040 and full sector net zero by 2050.

Mr Fairlie said the strategy sets out “the strategic importance of aviation to Scotland and the specific actions we will take to help ensure we can continue to enjoy its many benefits, while significantly reducing emissions in line with our net zero ambitions”.

He added: “I expect this report to stimulate a more positive and constructive conversation about aviation and how best to harness the significant economic, social and cultural benefits it provides.

“The reserved nature of aviation means that we will continue to influence the UK Government so that Scotland can benefit fully from their jet zero strategy which applies across the UK.

“The outcomes in this statement will only be achieved if we work effectively with airlines, airports and other interested groups, and I will ensure we have ongoing engagement with the sector to make our vision a reality.”

Scottish Conservative transport spokesman Graham Simpson said: “There has been a lot of progress in the aviation sector in Scotland. Both governments now need to set out how they will ensure that sustainable aviation fuel is made at scale in the UK – including at Grangemouth – and how we can ramp up the production and use of hydrogen. This document does not do that.”

A spokesperson for AGS Airports, which owns and operates Aberdeen and Glasgow airports, welcomed the strategy, but said: “This now needs to translate into a clear and ambitious policy framework that sets out how government and industry can work together to strengthen the vital international and domestic connectivity on which we are so reliant, while at the same time ensuring Scotland is at the forefront of harnessing the technologies that exist today to reach our net zero goals.”