Air New Zealand has decided to abandon its climate targets for 2030, citing the high costs and scarcity of necessary resources.In a statement, the airline announced it would no longer aim to reduce its carbon intensity by 2030 and would withdraw from the Science Based Targets initiative. The company explained that acquiring new aircraft and alternative jet fuels is both difficult and expensive.

Chief Executive Greg Foran highlighted that supply chain issues and high costs are likely to delay the introduction of newer, more fuel-efficient planes into their fleet.

Foran added that Air New Zealand is now working on establishing a new short-term climate goal that better reflects the challenges faced by the aviation industry.

Despite this setback, Air New Zealand’s Chair, Dame Therese Walsh, reassured that the airline is still committed to achieving its long-term goal of net zero carbon emissions by 2050.

“Our efforts to move away from fossil fuels are ongoing,” Walsh said. “We continue to advocate for both global and domestic policies and regulations that will support Air New Zealand and the broader aviation sector in New Zealand in mitigating the risks of climate change.”