The Air Transport Action Group is a highly respected not-for-profit association that represents all sectors of the air transport industry. It is the only global industry-wide body to bring together all aviation industry players so that they can speak with one voice - and it works to promote aviation's sustainable growth for the benefit of our global society.

ATAG's existence is entirely dependent upon funding from its members. These include airports, airlines, airframe and engine manufacturers, air navigation service providers, airline pilot and air traffic controller unions, chambers of commerce, tourism and trade partners, ground transportation and communications providers. The diversity of ATAG's membership adds to its credibility and high level of influence with international decision-makers.

ATAG has some 70 members worldwide; its funding members include Airports Council International, Airbus, Boeing, CFM International, International Air Transport Association and Rolls-Royce.

Mission

ATAG's mission is to define common positions on issues and to make expert and constructive contributions to the industry and governmental consultation process.

To this end, ATAG:

• advocates for coordinated action on strategic issues (such as environment and infrastructure) that require cross-industry involvement - and contributes to public policy debates;
• mobilises the industry towards joint statements and promotion of a joint vision;
• carries out appropriate studies to develop consistent data and information;
• proactively communicates aviation's positive role and impact with respect to economic and social development; and
• operates with flexibility and an open-mind, thus creating the conditions for a transparent dialogue.

In so doing, ATAG plays an influential role in ensuring that aviation can continue to grow according to market demands and deliver the enormous economic and social benefits it brings to the world.

Action -- how it works

ATAG has a worldwide mandate set by its funding members. This mandate alters according to the global needs of the aviation industry. By working proactively and by representing such a broad spectrum of industry players, ATAG is recognised as a credible source of information, enabling it to better position air transport with governments, intergovernmental bodies and interested parties.

ATAG provides access to a wide range of information sources, data and forecasts, which are distributed through ATAG's publications, press releases and website.

ATAG has also developed a global cross-industry initiative that informs the general public about the steps the aviation industry is taking to limit its emissions. Enviro.aero is financed by ATAG's funding members and showcases aviation's environmental credentials through the www.enviro.aero website (translated into French, German, Italian and Spanish).

ATAG also organises highly-respected global events like the annual Aviation & Environment Summit to unite the industry behind a common objective to tackle the industry's climate change impact. This is especially important this year in preparation for the UNFCCC COP 15 meeting in Copenhagen in December to deliver the follow-up to the Kyoto Protocol.

The focus of ATAG's activities

ATAG aims to ensure that the appropriate infrastructure facilities and procedures are in place in time to satisfy consumers' expectations. It takes at least ten years to plan, finance and build a major piece of air transport infrastructure such as an airport terminal or runway and sometimes nearly as long to bring a new air traffic control facility or system on stream.

ATAG aims to identify and resolve environmental problems and to accommodate environmental requirements in the industry's growth strategies. It looks for a balance between the environmental, social and economic effects of increased infrastructure capacity and, therefore, works closely with governments, environmental groups, planning institutes and the public to achieve this balance and to ensure that the right degree of commitment is made in time to meet mobility requirements.

ATAG works to:

• promote the concept of sustainable aviation, ensuring an optimal balance between economic growth, social benefits and environmental responsibility;
• press for the expansion and improvement of airports and air route capabilities to meet market demand according to sound environmental criteria; and
• provide leadership on improved surface access to airports and other suitable intermodal solutions between air and rail.

Who should join?

ATAG membership is open to companies and organisations that operate, manufacture, control or handle commercial aircraft, represent them or supply the aviation industry in any way.

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