Careers in Sustainable Aviation

Environmental sustainability has played a growing role in the aviation industry in recent years. Virtually every airline, airport, and aircraft manufacturer has developed sustainability initiatives to help them reduce their impact on climate change and adapt to its effects.

The prominence of sustainability in the industry has also led to a new category of jobs. New positions have emerged as governments and companies attempt to build a greener and more sustainable aviation sector.

While some of these roles are with existing companies, there are also new employers whose entire businesses are dedicated to sustainable aviation. With the existence of these novel opportunities, there are now many new unique and exciting green career paths for those looking to work in the aviation industry.

Sustainability-Based Jobs and Employers

Some employers are entirely in the business of developing green technologies or practices for aviation. These companies will be of interest to those seeking a career immersed in the world of sustainability. Examples include:

Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Development

Sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) – also sometimes known as biofuels – have the potential to significantly reduce carbon emissions from the aviation industry. SAF is produced from sources like non-food crops, municipal waste, carbon capture, and discarded oils and fats.

Although there have already been limited applications of SAF in commercial aviation, challenges involving cost, logistics, and technology are still preventing widespread adoption. As such, there are many job opportunities in the development and implementation of SAF with employers ranging from biofuel companies to engine manufacturers.

Electric Aircraft Manufacturing and Development

Another area of intense technological development is electrical aircraft. Aircraft powered by electricity – rather than carbon-emitting fossil fuels – could play a significant role in decarbonizing the aviation industry.

Many companies are working on electrical aircraft, from existing aircraft manufacturers like Embraer and Boeing to all-new startups like Archer Aviation and Heart Aerospace. Aircraft currently under development range from small general aviation aircraft to regional airliners.

The agreement with Southwest Airlines sets the stage for Archer’s flagship Midnight air taxi to serve airports across California. (Photo: Archer Aviation)

Given the immense amount of work required to bring these products to the skies, there are a large number of jobs available in this field. Many electrical aircraft manufacturers are actively hiring for a wide variety of positions, and the number of jobs in this space is expected to grow.

Other Green Aviation Jobs

While employers like SAF companies and electrical aircraft manufacturers are entirely focused on green aviation, there are also sustainability-based jobs with many other employers in the aviation industry. Here are some examples:

Aerospace Engineering

Electrical aircraft manufacturers naturally hire large numbers of aerospace engineers, but engineers at other companies also work on sustainable aviation. For example, aircraft manufacturers are heavily invested in improving fuel efficiency, in part to reduce carbon emissions. Similarly, engine manufacturers are also working towards reducing fuel burn and ensuring that their engines can use SAF.

Sustainability Advisors and Managers

Almost every major airline and airport has employees who manage sustainability within the organization. Sustainability advisors and managers develop and lead the organization’s green initiatives, working with internal and external stakeholders throughout the process.

Academic Research

While there is a significant amount of scientific research being done at private companies, academic researchers are also working on developing green technologies and practices. For example, the Federal Aviation Administration’s latest sustainability grants included funding for the University of Illinois, which plans on creating a testing facility for electrified aircraft systems.

A Challenging but Exciting Field

Improving sustainability in the aviation industry is a challenging long-term mission. The increasing amount of investment in this space has led to the creation of new career opportunities, marking a trend that is likely to grow. Careers in sustainable aviation offer not only the chance to improve the industry, but also the opportunity to contribute to a cleaner planet for the future.

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Andrew Chen

Andrew is a lifelong lover of aviation and travel. He has flown all over the world and is fascinated by the workings of the air travel industry. As a private pilot and glider pilot who has worked with airlines, airports and other industry stakeholders, he is always excited to share his passion for aviation with others. In addition to being a writer, he also hosts Flying Smarter, an educational travel podcast that explores the complex world of air travel to help listeners become better-informed and savvier travelers.

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