Qatar Airways has become the first major Middle Eastern carrier to launch a carbon offsetting scheme for passengers, after signing an agreement with aviation industry body IATA.
IATA’s system calculates the carbon footprint for different flights, and when passengers pay for their flights online, through Qatar Airways’ reservation line or via a travel agent they will be prompted to contribute to offset their carbon footprint.
International community projects will benefit from the programme, which is part of Qatar Airways’ Corporate Social Responsibility policy (CSR).
Akbar Al Baker, Qatar Airways chief executive, said Qatar is also investing in new, cleaner aircraft, keeping carbon emissions to a minimum and reducing the impact on the environment.
The system will be developed over the next four months. Further details are available at qatarairways.com/csr.
Report by Jane Najim
