Technical
ICAO Annex 16 Volume IV Reinforces CO₂ MRV Requirements
The Second Edition of ICAO Annex 16, Volume IV establishes the current global requirements for Monitoring, Reporting and Verification (MRV) under CORSIA, strengthening expectations for monitoring plans, emissions reporting, independent verification and data quality management.
Update details
Full summary and practical implications
The Second Edition of ICAO Annex 16, Volume IV became applicable on 1 January 2024 and remains the governing framework for CORSIA CO₂ Monitoring, Reporting and Verification (MRV).
Aircraft operators are required to maintain an approved Emissions Monitoring Plan describing fuel monitoring methodologies, responsibilities, internal controls and quality assurance procedures.
CO₂ emissions must be monitored throughout each reporting year using an approved monitoring methodology and supported by complete operational records.
Annual Emissions Reports must undergo independent verification by an accredited verification body before submission to the administering State.
The Environmental Technical Manual (Doc 9501, Volume IV) provides detailed implementation guidance supporting the SARPs and promotes globally harmonised verification and reporting practices.
States remain responsible for approving Monitoring Plans, reviewing verified emissions reports and administering compliance under the CORSIA framework.
Key ICAO CO₂ MRV Requirements
| Requirement | Description | Responsible Party |
|---|---|---|
| Emissions Monitoring Plan | Maintain an approved Monitoring Plan describing monitoring methodologies and internal controls. | Aircraft Operator |
| CO₂ Monitoring | Monitor emissions continuously throughout the reporting year. | Aircraft Operator |
| Annual Emissions Report | Prepare and submit an annual CO₂ emissions report. | Aircraft Operator |
| Independent Verification | Verify the emissions report before submission. | Verification Body |
| Regulatory Oversight | Approve Monitoring Plans and review verified reports. | Administering State |
| Implementation Guidance | Follow the Environmental Technical Manual (Doc 9501 Volume IV). | Aircraft Operator & State |
Operator actions
What your team should do next
Review your Emissions Monitoring Plan against the current ICAO Annex 16 Volume IV requirements.
Validate monitoring procedures and internal quality controls before the reporting year begins.
Maintain verification-ready fuel consumption and flight activity records throughout the reporting period.
Ensure annual emissions reports are independently verified before submission.
Review updates to the Environmental Technical Manual when implementing changes to monitoring procedures.
Useful links
Official sources for this update
Official SARPs
ICAO Annex 16 Volume IV – SARPs
Official ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices governing CORSIA Monitoring, Reporting and Verification.
Official Guidance
Environmental Technical Manual (Doc 9501 Volume IV)
Official implementation guidance supporting compliance with ICAO Annex 16, Volume IV.
Official Website
ICAO CORSIA
Official ICAO hub for CORSIA implementation, documentation and scheme updates.
Official FAQ
ICAO CORSIA FAQs
Official ICAO frequently asked questions covering CORSIA implementation and operator obligations.