Air France 2007 Annual Report Download - page 5

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3
2006-07
The commitments and actions undertaken by the Group
over the past few years in social, societal and
environmental matters enable us to figure amongst the
so-called “socially responsible investment” stocks.
By operating new, more energy-efficient aircraft with lower
greenhouse gas emissions, we want to set an example in
terms of respect for the environment. This is why, as
industry leader, we chose to support the European
Commission’s draft directive aimed at including air
transportation in the European Emissions Trading
Scheme. This proposal appears the most promising in
terms of reducing the impact of our activity on the
environment, without compromising growth in air
transportation.
Our sector represents a key driver of global growth,
facilitating exchanges and providing rapid and effective
solutions for the development of businesses in Europe
and world-wide.
Finally, within a sector undergoing consolidation,
Air France-KLM intends to continue to play a leading role
in becoming a global player, retaining its European roots
and gradually extending its economic interests in other
regions of the world. However, the precondition of our
future involvement in any operation will be its value
creation potential for the Group and its shareholders.
Today marks the beginning of a new phase for the Group
which will see deeper integration with, notably, the
establishment of the Air France-KLM Executive
Committee. This structure, comprising eleven directors
from Air France and KLM who will each assume additional
responsibility at Group level, will speed up the decision-
making process and allow us to achieve our ambition of
increased profitability with a target return on capital
employed of 8.5% by 2009-10.
Chairman’s
message
There are numerous challenges facing the Group and
the aviation industry as a whole. The “open skies”
agreement concluded this year between the European
Union and the United States represents real progress.
In recognizing the principle of a European airline, it
justifies our merger strategy.
I would very much like to thank Leo van Wijk, who has
decided to assume new responsibilities within the
Air France-KLM group and within SkyTeam. Together
we implemented an innovative and courageous project.
The trust established between us during these years
contributed to the success of the Group, of which we both
are proud, as I know are all of you who supported us.
I take this opportunity to thank you for your unwavering
loyalty.
Jean-Cyril Spinetta
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
Air France-KLM