The proposal of research into the chosen area is driven from an interest in the increasing resistance against the expansion of London Heathrow Airport in the United Kingdom. Sparking environmental concerns an investigation into common public attitudes for and against the development of the aviation industry can allow airlines, airport and other aviation-related organisations to develop new and existing technologies with consideration dependant on the views and needs of the public. Research of such can aid the growth of the industry thus leading to job availability, connectivity and an overall friendlier industry that supports and is welcomed by local communities in the UK.

The overall purpose of this proposal is to gather primary and secondary information to explain why the industry is and should be working to decrease the environmental impact of their day to day operation. Through the use of surveys, questionnaires and interviews, primary data will be gathered to assess the opinionative views of the general public on the subjects of the appeal of the aviation industry as UK citizen in addition to thoughts on sustainable aviation and the effect on the environment the industry imposes. Incorporating primary research, secondary data obtained through literature including books on aviation and the environment as well as journals on the theory of carbon neutrality will form to explore the four research questions:

• How is the government of the United Kingdom promoting the sustainable development of the UK Aviation Industry?

• How does Air Passenger Duty (APD) affect the industry?

• Are UK based airlines reducing their environmental emissions?

• Is Carbon Neutrality Necessary for UK Airlines?