United Airlines

United Airlines's reported carbon emissions

In 2024, United Airlines reported total carbon emissions of approximately 52.2 billion kg CO2e, comprising 38.5 billion kg CO2e from Scope 1, 134.5 million kg CO2e from Scope 2, and 13.6 billion kg CO2e from Scope 3 emissions. This marks an increase from 2023, where total emissions were approximately 49.4 billion kg CO2e, with Scope 1 emissions at 36.6 billion kg CO2e, Scope 2 at 144 million kg CO2e, and Scope 3 at 12.7 billion kg CO2e. United Airlines has set ambitious climate commitments, aiming for net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. The airline initially pledged to reduce its emissions by 50% by 2050, a target that has evolved to a commitment of 100% reduction by 2050. Additionally, United aims to cut its carbon intensity by 50% per revenue ton-kilometre (RTK) by 2035, using 2019 as the baseline year. This target encompasses emissions from Scope 1, Scope 2, and well-to-wake jet fuel, including Scope 3 category 4, which covers upstream transportation and distribution. To support these goals, United Airlines is investing in sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) and innovative carbon capture technologies, including a multimillion-dollar investment in Direct Air Capture (DAC) technology, which is expected to capture up to 1 million tons of CO2 annually. This initiative is part of their strategy to lead in the sustainable aviation sector and mitigate the impacts of climate change effectively.