Paul Murphy
Ceist:140. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Transport if he will support a ban on private jets as a measure to reduce global carbon emissions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27536/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThursday, 27 June 2024
Ceisteanna (140)
Freagraí scríofa
The term "private jet" is not defined in national, European, or international law and the nature of ownership does not arise as a specific categorisation. Operations of smaller jet aircraft are predominantly captured by the terms business aviation or general aviation however these categories include various types of operations.
It is generally acknowledged that the business and general aviation sector will likely play an important role as a testbed for new aircraft technologies including electric and hydrogen before development/deployment for larger aircraft and at scale.
The introduction of a complete ban is not considered appropriate given the broad nature of operations of these types of aircraft. For example, smaller jet aircraft are often used in the aeromedical field, additionally operations of these aircraft into Ireland may be for the purposes of availing of aircraft maintenance and overhaul.
However, it is recognised that a more concrete and definitive contribution to the decarbonisation effort could be made by this segment of the aviation sector. Preferably, any such measure would be introduced on a European wide basis. However, absent a forthcoming proposal, I have asked my officials to examine this matter to better understand the quantity and categories of operations of business/general aviation into Ireland.