With its study DEvelopment Pathways for Aviation up to 2070 (DEPA 2070), the German Aerospace Centre (DLR) has examined possible future scenarios for air traffic. Despite a predicted doubling of global air traffic by 2070, significant CO₂ savings are possible: around 23% in the conservative scenario and up to 89% in the progressive scenario, which includes hydrogen and electric propulsion. Sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) and new aircraft technologies play a central role. In addition to ecological effects, the study also highlights economic and social aspects: value creation and employment in the aviation sector could also increase significantly. DEPA 2070 thus provides an important basis for political strategies, investments and innovations towards climate-friendly, competitive air transport.
The complete project report can be found on the DLR website.
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