Air cargo body criticises proposed environmental legislation

The International Air Cargo Association (TIACA) has urged the EU to reconsider proposed environmental legislation set to be introduced next year.

From January 1st 2012, airlines landing and taking off within EU countries will be forced to comply with the new Emissions Trading Scheme.

This policy - aimed at boosting air quality - has been tailored to force carriers to pay when they overrun their allocation of carbon emissions.

However, bosses at the TIACA have said the system contravenes international law and treaties, while also having the potential to cost airlines up to $3.5 billion (£2.2 billion) by 2020.

Vice chairman Oliver Edwards believes a different approach to reducing pollution is required.

"We firmly believe that aviation emissions must be addressed through a global framework and that the appropriate body for developing such an approach is the International Civil Aviation Organisation," he remarked.

A number of renowned companies have slammed the law, including Emirates Airline, which fears its profits will be severely impacted.

Posted by Lauren Steadman