Climbing. Fast campaign to push net zero mission (and more): NBAA-BACE reports

A new industry-wide campaign, called Climbing. Fast, has been launched at NBAA-BACE in Las Vegas to promote business aviation’s mission to achieve net zero carbon emissions, its leadership on meeting sustainability targets and wider contributions to society.

The new campaign will build on the success of the No Plane, No Gain initiative, Ed Bolen, president and CEO, NBAA told a media breakfast meeting today. “No Plane No Gain, has been around for a very long time. It is the foundation on which Climbing. Fast will build,” he said. “It’s not just about the industry’s commitment to net zero contributions but it’s about who we are.”

Business aviation has long provided economic and employment opportunities, helped business of all sizes, connected communities and provided humanitarian aid in addition to setting and delivering on measurable sustainability targets, said Bolen. “Our new, branded Climbing. Fast. initiative will take this message to policymakers, opinion leaders and other key audiences, informing perceptions about the industry’s sustainability record and value,” he added.

Featuring a new website,  ClimbingFast.com, the campaign is backed by NBAA, General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA), Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) and others.

Pete Bunce, president and CEO GAMA said business aviation is the technology incubator for the aviation industry and leads the way in promoting safety and sustainability. “Our industry supports over 1.2 million total jobs and over $247 billion in total economic output in the United States. When you look at our industry, Climbing. Fast. truly describes the work we have been doing to foster aviation’s sustainability and technology, advance safety, strengthen economic growth and provide valuable services to communities,” he said. Pictured: the new campaign aims to empower everyone in business aviation to promote the sector’s contribution to sustainability, economic development and wider societal benefits.

What others said about Climbing. Fast. – at a glance

Mark Baker, president and CEO AOPA

“What business aviation contributes to society is immeasurable and its commitment to sustainability unmatched. The Climbing. Fast. initiative will help showcase the industry’s resolve toward positive change through sustainable programmes and AOPA is pleased to support this admirable campaign.”

Jack J Pelton, CEO and chairman of the Board with the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA)

“As new technologies are developed, it opens more possibilities to incorporate sustainable energy innovations to maintain and expand the worldwide benefits of aviation. EAA members have always been at the forefront of imagination and innovation for flight, so we’re excited for programmes such as Climbing. Fast. and others to bring opportunities for aviation’s future that were not even imagined just a short time ago.”

James Viola, president and CEO, Helicopter Association International (HAI)

“The movement toward environmentally friendly Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) aircraft is already underway, with both new entrants and existing manufacturers utilising alternative fuels. This evolution toward sustainability is the right direction for the aviation industry. Climbing. Fast. is necessary for the public and policymakers to fully understand how vertical aviation and all aviation is working towards a greener tomorrow.”

Wayne Starling, executive director, International Aircraft Dealers Association (IADA)

“IADA proudly supports the business aviation industry’s new Climbing. Fast. advocacy campaign. We are pleased to be a part of this comprehensive industry initiative to promote business aviation’s measurable, sustainable and ongoing progress to improve our environment.”

Kurt Edwards, executive director, International Business Aviation Council (IBAC) 

“Climbing. Fast. gives voice to the remarkable sustainability progress business aviation has made to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, while meeting diverse economic and societal needs. The campaign has a globally relevant message, and IBAC will work with our members and other industry partners to elevate it with policymakers around the world, underscoring business aviation’s commitment to sustainability and broader societal benefits.”

Ed Medici, president, National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA)

“NAFA is proud to support the Climbing. Fast. Initiative. We recognise the importance of a sustainable approach to business aviation operations. NAFA members provide the capital that allows the industry to realise a more sustainable future through advancements in technology, efficiencies and investments in the next generation workforce.”