Delta Air Lines has become the first in the United States to increase its prices following the introduction of the European Union sponsored Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS).

The giant American carrier confirmed it would add a $3 surcharge each way on fares purchase in the US for flights to Europe.

ETS came into force on January 1st following approval from the European Court of Justice over its legality.

No other airline in the United States has yet indicated it will follow Delta’s lead on surcharges.

However, in Europe, Lufthansa has said it will pass the cost directly on to consumers.

When applied to airlines, ETS means airlines touching down or taking off in the European Union must account for their CO2 emissions.

Airline groups in the United States, China and India have all attacked the scheme.

China Air Transport Association (CATA) said earlier today Chinese airlines would not pay any charges under the scheme.

CATA represents the four major Chinese airlines, including flag-carrier Air China.