Sustainable Aviation was launched in 2005 with a set of Goals and Commitments. Following a review of these in 2009, SA combined two of the Goals (Social and Economic) and simplified the supporting commitments, replacing them with close tracking of the operational cooperative work being undertaken by signatories.

The Goals are:

1. Social & Economic

A competitive aviation industry making a positive contribution to the UK economy and meeting the needs of society for air transport, whilst maintaining constructive relationships with stakeholders.

2. Climate Change

Aviation incorporated into a robust global policy framework that achieves stabilisation of greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere at a level that would prevent dangerous man-made interference with the climate system.

3. Noise

Limit and, where possible, reduce the impact of aircraft noise.

4. Local Air Quality

Industry to play its full part in improving air quality around airports.

5. Surface Access

Industry playing its full part in an efficient, sustainable multi-modal UK transport system.

6. Natural Resources

Environmental footprint of UK aviation’s ground-based non-aircraft activities is contained through effective engagement and reduction measures.

7. Implementation

Full industry commitment to sustainable development and communicating fully the role of aviation in society in order to support a better understanding of its contributions