airBaltic CEO questions flight shaming, arguing need for connectivity

airBaltic CEO Martin Gauss questioned the practice of shaming air transport passengers for using a service that "connects society", noting air travel is not a luxury but a necessary way to remain connected with family and friends (Simple Flying, 06-Jan-2020). Mr Gauss added: "Yes, we do produce CO2 when we fly, that is correct. We [the aviation industry] produced 2.8% of all man-made CO2 this year; it's still 2.8% but we are by far one of the smaller contributors". Mr Gauss said the aviation industry is investing billions in modern technology, working towards carbon neutrality and driving down CO2 emissions faster than any other industry. Mr Gauss added: "The focus is on the airlines now and I think it is completely unfair".