Price of curbing aviation pollution less than a glass of in-flight pinot noir

New York

THE proposed United Nations accord to limit pollution from international flights could cost airlines billions. For passengers, the price may be less than an in-flight glass of pinot noir.

Airlines estimate the measure being debated this week in Montreal would cost the industry between US$2.9 billion and US$12.4 billion annually by 2030. Based on sample routes, that could add between 31 US cents and US$12.10 per seat, according to the Air Transport Action Group (ATAG), a Geneva-based organisation representing airlines, engine makers, airports and pilots.