Air France, its Dutch KLM arm and Lufthansa's Brussels Airlines are among 20 airlines being investigated by the European Union for potentially misleading greenwashing practices, the airlines told Reuters, confirming a report by Belgian broadcaster RTBF.
The EU said airlines needed to make clear to what extent claims that the CO2 emissions caused by a flight could be offset by climate projects or through the use of sustainable fuels can be substantiated based on sound scientific evidence.
"Air France confirms having received a letter from the European Commission. The company is currently reviewing its contents and will study the follow-up to be taken," a spokesperson said.
The Lufthansa Group said in a statement that it naturally deals with every complaint it receives and that it is examining it carefully.
A spokesperson for KLM said the Dutch part of the Air France-KLM airline group had also received a letter from the commission.
Industry group Airlines for Europe (A4E) said in a statement that it recognises the importance of clear information about sustainability, but said that current regulations in the EU "vary significantly between countries and are still evolving".
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It is unclear which other airlines are being investigated.
The EU has said it will not disclose the names as long as they are at a preliminary stage of the investigation.
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