Munich and Frankfurt airports will introduce a charge of EUR3 (US$4.24) per kg. of nitrous oxide emissions for all airlines landing there effective Jan. 1.

The airports noted that the fee will not generate additional airport revenue as it will be offset by "an equivalent reduction in the weight-based component of the airport charge."

Munich Airport CEO Michael Kerkloh said the program "will achieve two effects. We create an incentive for airlines to operate aircraft with the lowest possible NOx emissions and send a long-term signal to manufacturers to forge ahead with technological innovation."

The pilot project, which will run for three years, was developed by the German Airport Transport Initiative in consultation with the Ministry of Transport, Building and Urban Affairs.