NBAA President Bolen Says “Time to Stop Shaming” Business Jets

NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen responded to an opinion piece published by The Washington Post calling for a curb in the growth of business aviation because of its impact on the environment.

In a letter titled “It’s Time to Stop Shaming an Essential Business Tool,” Bolen said, “Business aviation is a critical component of our nation’s economy and transportation system, with important societal benefits and a strong momentum toward a net-zero carbon future.”

The article “Cancel Private Jets? Here’s a Better Idea” released by The Washington Post pointed out the oversized environmental footprint of the sector, saying that “Until zero-emission journeys are a reality, curbing growth in private flying will be necessary.”

In response, Bolen said the article has “set up a false debate about the value of business aviation.”

He said the business aviation sector not only brings efficiency and productivity to companies, but supports the economy by creating more than a million jobs and $200 billion in the US each year.

The piece came out at a time of heated debate on whether to ban private jets, as green politicians in France are demanding an outright ban on such aircraft.

Although private jets account for just 0.04% of global emissions, the amount is still relatively high compared with other modes of transport.

However, the industry is pouring its efforts into developing sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

Bolen also talked about how the Wright brothers defied naysayers with their innovative spirit and put America on a path toward global leadership in aviation. “We will build on that legacy in a safe, secure and sustainable way,” he added.