British Airways emissions rise as flights increase
Date: 16-Jul-04
Country: UK
The airline, which faces environmental opposition to its hopes for a third runway at Heathrow, said emissions crept higher in 2003/04 after sharp declines for the previous two years during a global downturn in air travel.
In an annual report on its environmental performance, the airline said it aimed further to reduce waste and improve fuel efficiency but said the only way seriously to tackle pollution at congested Heathrow was through improved rail links.
Chief Executive Rod Eddington said motor vehicle traffic contributed three-quarters of emissions at Heathrow and it would be impossible to meet government conditions for a third runway without additional rail access.
"I don't think you can actually meet the targets which have been set as part of the (government's aviation) White Paper unless you can address some of the rail issues," Eddington told reporters.
British Airways and dominant airport operator BAA Plc (BAA.L: Quote, Profile, Research) have been lobbying hard for a third runway at Heathrow, the world's busiest international airport.
The government said in December a third runway would not be built until 2015-2020, and would have to meet strict emission and noise limits.
The airline said noise pollution at London airports was steady in 2003/04 after the retirement of its Concorde aircraft offset increased flight volumes.
Eddington reiterated the company was not close to any new aircraft purchases but said it would monitor both U.S. aerospace giant Boeing Co.'s (BA.N: Quote, Profile, Research) new 7E7 jets and European rival Airbus's (EAD.PA: Quote, Profile, Research) (BA.L: Quote, Profile, Research) larger A380 aircraft.
British Airways shares closed 1.3 percent higher at 248 pence in a firmer overall market.
