Civil Aviation

Connecting people

Flying connects people across borders and continents, and is a cornerstone of our global economy, especially for time-sensitive goods and lifesaving medical supplies.

Carrying people by air is a significant responsibility. Thanks to ever more sophisticated aircraft, technology and control systems, the airplane is statistically the safest means of transport. And the European aeronautics industry is a global leader in developing safer air travel.

The aerospace industry is actively addressing environmental concerns around aviation. Our European members lead the way in developing efficient aircraft and systems aimed at minimising carbon emissions. In fact, each new generation of aircraft is up to 20% more fuel efficient than the previous one. This has led to today’s modern aircraft producing 80% less CO2 per seat than the first jets in the 1950s. 

Civil Aeronautics

  • 118.9 bn

    Turnover

    Turnover of the European civil aeronautics industry in 2023, a 2.9% increase over 2022

  • 106.9 bn

    Exports

    European civil aeronautics exports in 2023

  • 387,000

    Employment

    People employed by the European civil aeronautics industry in 2023

Value to society

Explore the diverse and significant contributions our industry makes to society, showcasing the far-reaching impact of our work.

ASD initiatives

Key focus areas for our daily work as the voice for the civil aviation sector in Europe

Destination 2050 Roadmap

The European aviation industry – encompassing airlines, airports, air navigation service providers, aircraft and aero engine manufacturers – stands united in its commitment to achieving climate neutrality by 2050, aligned with the EU Green Deal and the Paris Agreement. At the heart of this commitment lies our alliance, Destination 2050, guided by a collective vision: to make net-zero aviation a reality.

Learn more

European Civil Aeronautics Summit

The European Civil Aeronautics Summit 2024 brought together experts and stakeholders to discuss sustainable aviation, emphasising Europe’s Clean Industrial Deal and pathways to net-zero emissions. Watch the discussions from the 2024 European Civil Aeronautics Summit on ASD's Youtube channel.

Watch the Highlights

Latest civil aviation news

Contacts