CORSIA
Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation
The Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA) is the first global carbon pricing framework applied to an entire industrial sector. Established by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), CORSIA aims to stabilize net CO₂ emissions from international flights at 2019 levels and support the aviation sector’s contribution to global climate goals.
At Climate Balanced, we support aviation actors and offset suppliers with deep technical guidance, from selling CORSIA-eligible carbon credits to developing impact-aligned projects in Least Developed Countries (LDCs).
Implementing CORSIA
CORSIA was adopted in 2016 by ICAO Member States through Assembly Resolution A39-3. It was designed as a market-based measure to complement fuel-efficiency improvements and the deployment of sustainable aviation fuels. The scheme is implemented in three phases:
- Pilot Phase (2021–2023) – voluntary participation
- First Phase (2024–2026) – expanded voluntary coverage
- Second Phase (2027–2035) – mandatory for most countries, except LDCs and small island states
According to ICAO, over 100 countries have opted in, covering approximately 77% of international aviation emissions.
What does CORSIA target?
CORSIA is a global program established by ICAO to support its objective of achieving carbon-neutral growth in international aviation from 2020 onward. Under this mechanism, airlines can use eligible carbon credits from recognized markets to offset the portion of their CO₂ emissions that cannot be mitigated through technological, operational, or fuel-related improvements.
The CORSIA baseline is defined as follows:
- 2021–2023: Equal to the total CO₂ emissions from international aviation in 2019.
- 2024–2035: Set at 85% of the 2019 international aviation CO₂ emissions.
Starting from 2021, any CO₂ emissions from international flights exceeding this baseline must be compensated by purchasing eligible carbon credits to meet offsetting obligations.
Market Size & Credit Demand
Under CORSIA, airlines are required to purchase carbon offset credits to cover emissions growth above the 2019 baseline. While 2020–2022 demand was low due to the pandemic-induced drop in aviation activity, demand is expected to surge post-2024, as international travel rebounds and compliance obligations expand.
Estimates from ICROA and Slyveria suggest that CORSIA-related credit demand could reach over 168 million tCO₂e annually by the 2030s. This opens a significant opportunity for project developers and credit holders — particularly those offering credits aligned with CORSIA eligibility criteria.
What Makes a Credit CORSIA-Eligible?
Credits must meet strict quality and integrity standards, as approved by the ICAO Council, which has endorsed a select list of programs and methodologies. Eligible credits must be:
- Generated from approved programs such as Gold Standard, Verra (VCS), Global Carbon Council, American Carbon Registry, and ART-TREES. The whole list can be accessed from ICAO’s channels.
- Issued for activities whose first crediting period starting from January 1, 2016
- From emission reductions or removals that are real, additional, permanent, and independently verified
- Free from double counting, with host country authorization under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement
The ICAO Technical Advisory Body (TAB) conducts regular evaluations of program eligibility, methodologies, and safeguards.
Contemporary Developments
Market Refinement: ICAO continues to update eligibility criteria, emphasizing robust MRV, social safeguards, and alignment with Article 6 of the Paris Agreement.
Least Developed Country (LDC) Prioritization: ICAO encourages impact investment in LDCs, which are exempt from compliance obligations but are prioritized for sustainable project development.
Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Integration: While offsets remain a core tool, future integration with SAF crediting mechanisms is under review.
Compliance Clarity: Airlines are expected to submit emissions data and offsetting documentation through their national authorities, creating a structured reporting ecosystem.
How We Support the CORSIA Ecosystem?
Supply of CORSIA-Eligible Carbon Credits
For aeroplane operators seeking to comply with ICAO’s CORSIA requirements, we provide verified and traceable carbon credits sourced exclusively from projects meeting the highest international standards.
Our CORSIA portfolio ensures:
- Full technical eligibility under ICAO criteria.
- Corresponding adjustments to guarantee avoidance of double counting and alignment with host country commitments.
- High-integrity project selection, prioritizing additionality, permanence, and measurable impact.
Mobilize CORSIA-Eligible Carbon Credits
If you manage a carbon project certified under an approved standard and methodology, your credits may be eligible for CORSIA compliance buyers.
At Climate Balanced, we:
- Assess your credits for CORSIA eligibility
- Facilitate direct sales or ERPA structuring with aviation buyers
- Assist with documentation, registry management, and audit support
- Connect you with major airlines and aggregators active in CORSIA markets
- Maximize the value of your carbon asset by tapping into a regulated, growing buyer base.
Develop CORSIA-Linked Impact Projects in LDCs
CORSIA encourages airlines and investors to support carbon offset projects in Least Developed Countries — delivering both compliance benefits and measurable climate impact.
We offer turnkey project development in LDCs, focusing on eligible project types such as community based projects or soil organic cabon projets
Who Should Work With Us?
- Airlines and aviation groups seeking compliant offsets or impact partnerships
- Carbon credit owners looking to tap into CORSIA demand
- Investors and donors aiming to fund carbon projects in LDCs with high integrity and return
Ready to Engage with CORSIA?
Whether you’re looking to supply credits, develop a project, or understand how CORSIA fits into your climate strategy — we’re ready to support.
Contact our CORSIA Desk: trading@climatebalanced.com
Or submit your project or inquiry here:
