Transatlantic eco-friendly initiative launched

A joint initiative to reduce carbon emissions from transatlantic flights has been launched this week by the European commission and the US Federal Aviation Administration.

The Atlantic Interoperability Initiative to Reduce Emissions (AIRE) will help to develop and implement green technology and operational processes that will help to slash carbon emissions from flights between the USA and Europe.

Its members will also undertake a number of experiments and campaigns to test new eco-friendly initiatives that are developed.

"Following the major success of our open skies agreement, this is further proof that the European Union and the United States benefit from working together in the aviation sector. We both want a sky open to aircraft but not to emissions," commented Jacques Barrot, European commission vice president with responsibilities for transport.

The open skies agreement, which will open up transatlantic skies to more carriers, was backed by EU transport ministers earlier this year and is expected to come into effect from next March.

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