The European Business Aviation Association is closely following the appointment of Teresa Ribera as the new Executive Vice-President for Clean, Just, and Competitive Transition in the European Commission. This leadership change brings both challenges and opportunities for business aviation as the sector continues to adapt to an evolving regulatory landscape.

Teresa Ribera, a Socialist politician and environmental law expert from Spain (PSOE), brings a reputation for pragmatism and a track record of developing complex policy during tough times. Her role comes at a time when the von der Leyen Commission II is recalibrating its strategy to address climate change, economic competitiveness, and social equity.

The evolving political dynamics within the EU—shaped by a shift to the right in the European Parliament—suggest that Ribera may have to lean into a more pragmatic approach to policymaking, balancing ecological goals with economic realities. However, her reputation as a determined advocate for sustainability means she could also emerge as a wildcard, driving bold policies that will significantly impact industries like business aviation.

Who is Teresa Ribera?

Born in Madrid in 1969, Ribera has built a multifaceted career spanning academia, public administration, and high-level politics. As Spain’s Minister for Ecological Transition from 2018 to 2024, promoted renewable energy, led the way on phasing out coal and nuclear power, and made Spain a leader in the global energy transition.

Her tenure was marked by decisive actions, including the negotiation of the “Iberian Energy Exception” during the 2022 energy crisis. This mechanism, which capped gas prices for Spain and Portugal, demonstrated her ability to address immediate crises while maintaining a long-term vision for sustainable energy reform. Ribera’s commitment to the “Just Transition” principle highlighting the need to balance environmental progress with social equity, supporting workers and communities affected by the shift away from fossil fuels.

Ribera’s leadership style blends idealism with pragmatism. Her appointment signals a commitment to continuing the European Union’s Green Deal objectives, which aim to make Europe the first climate-neutral continent by 2050. Nevertheless, her capacity to navigate a more conservative EU landscape indicates that she will prioritise solutions that are both actionable and economically viable.

What this means for business aviation

Teresa Ribera’s policies are set to have a significant impact on the business aviation sector, with a more stringent regulatory environment emphasising decarbonisation and environmental responsibility. Tougher emission rules will likely lead to more investment in sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) and electric planes.

More funding for cleaner aviation could also lead to new ideas and opportunities. The EU is also looking at ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, which could mean including aviation in mechanisms like the Emissions Trading System (ETS). This could make sustainability a bigger priority for operators, as it might lead to higher operational costs.

Despite these challenges, Ribera’s pragmatic approach offers a path for collaboration between policymakers and industry leaders. If business aviation embraces innovation and aligns with the EU’s climate goals, it can show it’s committed to a greener future while still playing a vital role in Europe’s economy.

A critical juncture for business aviation

Teresa Ribera represents both continuity and change within the European Commission. Her leadership offers a unique opportunity for industries, including business aviation, to adapt to an evolving regulatory framework that prioritizes sustainability without losing sight of economic competitiveness.

EBAA aims to get involved with Ribera’s agenda and push for policies that are fair to the industry and recognise its efforts and potential. If the business aviation sector plays its part, it can show and communicate that it’s leading the way in the green transition. In other words, it can drive innovation while still playing an important part in Europe’s connectivity and economic dynamism.

As Europe faces an uncertain future, leaders like Ribera will shape the trajectory of the continent’s sustainability journey. EBAA will engage with von der Leyen Commission II and continue to advocate as Europe’s voice for business aviation.