Aviation chiefs have signed a declaration that pledges to address the industry's impact on climate change but shuns concrete targets to reduce carbon emissions.

The declaration has been signed by 16 industry groups as well as aircraft makers Boeing and Airbus.

It commits aviation companies to develop new technologies with the aim of achieving carbon-free travel. Airlines contribute more than two per cent of the carbon dioxide emissions that drive global warming.

The declaration signed in Geneva on Tuesday also calls for better use of airspace and the creation of an emissions trading scheme controlled by the industry.

Most companies in the sector oppose government-run trading schemes such as that proposed by the European Union.