Environmental sustainability

United's goal is to advance sustainability in aviation

United is taking action to help tackle some of the most pressing challenges in the aviation industry, including the direct threat that climate change poses to our business. Sustainability is embedded in our business strategy and continues to be a top priority. Our leadership sets us apart and our proactive approach not only benefits our customers and employees, but also delivers value to our shareholders.

Key Highlights

BCDP score

Most InnovativeNamed a winner of Fast Company’s World Changing Ideas Award and Time’s 100 Most Influential Companies

1stairline to use a SAF blend at ORD

Lauren RileyChief Sustainability Officer

United’s efforts to increase the availability and use of SAF plays an important role in improving energy security and sustainability in aviation. In 2024, we were the first airline to use a blend of SAF at Chicago’s ORD, while increasing its use across all of our operations. We also expanded participation in United Airlines Ventures Sustainable Flight Fund^SM and the SAF Coalition, both of which reinforce our commitment to differentiating United and advancing aviation for the future.

Our environmental strategy

United Airlines was the first global airline to set a goal to achieve net zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2050, without relying on the use of voluntary, traditional^{Footnote 1} carbon offsets.

Illustrative roadmap to net zero by 2050

Aviation currently contributes around 3% of global GHG emissions. United is committed to help tackle the root causes of our GHG emissions, the bulk of which come from conventional jet fuel.

Sustainability efforts at every altitude

United is seeking to further embed sustainability across our operations. From our customer experience and our employee spaces to the communities in which we serve, we understand that our operations need to reflect these efforts.

Collaborating to help drive environmental progress

The path towards more sustainable aviation requires active and ongoing collaboration across the value chain to improve efficiency and work towards reducing the emissions from flying. To do this, we engage with stakeholders, including policymakers, customers, airports, cross-industry partners, fuel producers, NGOs and more.

Environmental compliance

At United, we strive for excellence in compliance. We leverage a robust environmental management system that supports our goal to do the right thing while maintaining reliable operations across the business.

Climate risks and opportunities

United recognizes the importance of identifying and understanding risks to inform a comprehensive climate strategy that enhances our resilience.

Footnotes

In this report, “traditional carbon offsets” refer to carbon credits generated through the avoidance and/or reduction of CO₂ emissions that would have otherwise occurred outside a company’s value chain. Traditional carbon offsets do not include certificates conveying the attributes of renewable energy or sustainable aviation fuel, or credits related to the removal of CO₂ from the atmosphere.