The aviation industry now uses a staggering 5 million barrels of jet fuel every day. Many of the world’s largest oil fields are nearing depletion. With peak oil production finally upon us, or very nearly so, the inevitable downward spiral of fuel supplies is no longer a doomsday theory. Without a viable solution, aviation after peak oil will eventually be grounded.
Growth estimates for global passenger traffic range between 3% and 5% per year. Airbus is betting the company on the new A380. Massive airport expansions are underway, worldwide, to cope with the projected increases. Considering how many airports are running beyond capacity, these seem like wise business decisions. But what about the looming crisis in world oil production? Is there a plan for aviation after peak oil?