Nachhaltigkeitscongress 2025 (Official Partner)

Carbon Offsetting & Reduction Scheme for Internal Aviation (CORSIA)

Overview Summary

The Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA) is the first global market‑based mechanism designed to cap and offset the growth of CO₂ emissions from international aviation. Adopted by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) in 2016, the scheme requires airlines to monitor, report and verify emissions and to purchase eligible emissions units when emissions exceed the agreed baseline. It complements in‑sector measures such as aircraft efficiency improvements, operational optimisation and sustainable aviation fuels to support the sector’s goal of achieving net‑zero emissions by 2050.

Scope of Coverage

The scheme applies to all airplane operators conducting international flights between participating states.

2027 → All 193 ICAO Member States, with limited exemptions, will be covered under the mandatory phase. Airlines must submit certified emissions reports and purchase CORSIA Eligible Emissions Units when emissions exceed the baseline.

Affected Entities

The RED applies to EU Member States and the following EU sectors:

– Fuel suppliers
– Renewable energy producers
– Operators of biofuel and biomass supply chains
– Producers of renewable fuels of non‑biological origin and recycled carbon fuels

It affects industry sectors involved in:

– Renewable electricity
– Bioenergy
– Heating and cooling
– Transport fuels and
– Hydrogen production and its derivatives

Applicability & Compliance Timeline

2019 → CORSIA’s first mandatory reporting requirements began.
2021–2023 → The pilot phase started operating on voluntary participation.
2024–2026 → The first phase started operating on voluntary participation. Compliance reports for the 2024–2026 period must be submitted by 31 January 2028.
2027 → The second phase becomes mandatory for nearly all states.

From 2024 to 2035, the baseline for calculating offset obligations is set at 85% of 2019 emissions.

What This Means for Companies

Airlines must establish verified monitoring systems, maintain high‑quality emissions data and procure eligible emissions units to meet offsetting obligations. Companies with significant business travel footprints may be indirectly affected through ticket price surcharges linked to CORSIA compliance. Meo Carbon Solutions supports aviation stakeholders with CORSIA-compliant emissions calculations, readiness assessments, certification support (e.g., under the ISCC CORSIA scheme) and procurement strategy advisory for eligible emissions units.