A new in-depth study from InfluenceMap shows that Europe's largest airlines have consistently lobbied to weaken measures that would make the sector more sustainable as part of efforts to address the climate crisis.These efforts appear to be led by Air France-KLM, International Airlines Group (IAG), Lufthansa, and Ryanair - the four European airlines with the largest disclosed CO2 emissions in 2019. They are joined by two main aviation industry groups, International Air Transport Association, and Airlines for Europe.Ciarán Cuffe Green Party MEP for Dublin and European Parliament Transport Committee member said: ’This report shows the hypocrisy of many in the airline industry: despite a clear acknowledgement that the unfolding climate crisis needs action through public support for the climate neutrality target in 2050, many airlines privately lobby against all of the measures needed to achieve this goal. If these companies are against taxing the pollution they produce, against a stronger Emissions Trading Scheme, against targets for sustainable aviation fuels - how else do they propose we reduce emissions? Completely ineffective carbon offsetting schemes that allow them to continue polluting are clearly their preferred option. And they are willing to accept taxpayers’ money without any quid pro quo on sustainability or worker protection.’’Mr Cuffe went on to say: “This report by InfluenceMap comes at an important moment. We need the Commission to be serious about reducing aviation’s emissions and level the playing field between transport modes. I urge the Commission to propose a minimum EU-wide tax on jet fuel, to expand the ETS to international aviation and eliminate free allowances, and to propose regulatory measures on the non-CO2 effects of aviation. Aviation continues to avoid measures that tackle its growing emissions.’’ ‘’The report covers the period before and after Covid-19 and throughout, the industry has opposed environmental measures using a variety of excuses. Even accounting for Covid-19, international aviation emissions are expected to rise by 220-290% by 2050 - this signals catastrophe for our climate. We need urgent action to ensure that aviation contributes its fair share. There is no time to lose. ‘’ENDS