From adopting cutting-edge technologies and renewable fuels to rethinking operational efficiencies and engaging passengers in ecofriendly practices, commercial airlines are evolving to meet the urgent need for environmental responsibility.
Commercial air travel is the only viable option for transporting large groups of people quickly over large distances, faces increasing pressure to reconcile its essential role in travel and commerce with the imperative to reduce environmental impact. Responsible for approximately 2-3 per cent of global carbon emissions, the sector is being challenged to innovate and implement sustainable practices. Airlines, as key players, have responded with initiatives encompassing alternative fuels, fleet modernisation, advanced operational strategies, and collaborative frameworks but what makes the picture truly worrisome is that air traffic is surging across the globe, so aviation’s emissions could well triple by 2050.
Acutely aware of the looming possibility that commercial aviation could effectively become environmentally unsustainable, in October 2022, member states of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) agreed to a long-term aspirational goal (LTAG) of net zero emissions from aviation by 2050. Net zero means the amount of GHG removed from the atmosphere is equal to that emitted by that activity. A near-term milestone of reducing carbon emissions by five per cent by 2030 has also been formulated. So, what is the airline industry doing to promote sustainability?
AIMING AT EVERYTHING
Sustainable aviation is a multidisciplinary field that seeks to reduce aviation’s environmental footprint through innovation and new practices. Some measures are fairly obvious and ongoing. For instance, thanks to airframe redesign and more fuel-efficient engines, a typical flight today generates just half the CO2 it would have in 1990. Many airlines are resolutely getting rid of their older aircraft and investing in modern, fuelefficient planes. However, rather than wait endlessly for new airliners, airlines are also striving to enhance operational efficiency and reduce emissions by optimising flight routes, minimising aircraft taxi times, and reducing weight. No sustainability measure is too small. Artificial intelligence (AI) can help avoid flight delays, reduce fuel consumption and select flightpaths that avoid or reduce contrail production. A relatively modest investment in new, lightweight seating can reduce aircraft weight and significantly lower emissions over time. Similarly, sustainable cabin practices can make a substantial contribution to going green. For instance, some airlines are reducing the use of single use plastics because they generate huge amounts of GHG and create mountains of waste. They are striving to recycle on-board waste, and even aiming for more sustainable catering options. Carbon offsetting programmes or “green fares” allow conscientious passengers to voluntarily offset the emissions from their flights by contributing to projects that reduce emissions, such as renewable energy installations or reforestation efforts.
One clear indication of the seriousness with which the industry is striving for sustainability is that some airlines are integrating air travel with other modes of transportation to reduce emissions. For example, Lufthansa offers passengers combined air and rail tickets for convenient and eco-friendly short journeys.
THE PIVOTAL ROLE OF SAF
Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAFs) represent a transformative solution for reducing aviation’s carbon footprint. Unlike conventional jet fuel, SAFs are derived from renewable feedstocks such as agricultural residues, municipal solid waste, and algae. When measured across their lifecycle, SAFs can reduce carbon emissions by up to 80 per cent.
United Airlines has taken a leadership position in SAF adoption. In 2021, the airline made history by operating a passenger flight with one engine powered entirely by SAF, demonstrating its readiness for integration into commercial operations. United has also committed to purchasing over 3 billion gallons of SAF by 2030—a bold move supported by strategic investments in Fulcrum BioEnergy and Alder Fuels. These partnerships aim to scale SAF production, addressing the high costs and limited availability that have hampered widespread adoption.
Across the Atlantic, British Airways is championing waste-to-fuel technology. Its collaboration with Velocys focuses on building a facility in Immingham, UK, that will convert non-recyclable waste into SAF. This project underscores British Airways’ broader strategy of embedding sustainability into its operations, with the airline targeting a 10 per cent SAF blend in its fuel mix by 2030.
Singapore Airlines is similarly forward-thinking, having launched a pilot SAF programme in partnership with the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore and ExxonMobil. The initiative integrates SAF into routine operations at Changi Airport, aiming to assess long-term feasibility and demonstrate scalability within Asia’s bustling aviation market.
INVESTING IN NEXT-GENERATION AIRCRAFT
The efficiency of modern aircraft is critical to achieving sustainability goals. Airlines are replacing older, less efficient models with state-of-the-art aircraft that consume less fuel and emit fewer pollutants.
Delta Air Lines has invested heavily in next-generation aircraft, including the Airbus A321neo and Boeing 737 MAX. These planes feature advanced aerodynamics, lightweight composite materials, and more efficient engines, collectively reducing fuel consumption by up to 30 per cent. Delta’s broader sustainability strategy integrates these aircraft into routes with high demand, ensuring optimal efficiency while maintaining passenger comfort.
Qantas Airways is undergoing a similar transformation. Its ambitious “Project Sunrise” initiative aims to operate ultra-longhaul flights using Airbus A350-1000 aircraft. These planes are equipped with Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines, which are among the most fuel-efficient in the world. By combining these advancements with a focus on route optimisation, Qantas anticipates significant reductions in fuel burn per passenger kilometre.
Airlines are investing heavily in fleet modernisation with next-generation aircraft which consume significantly less fuel and emit fewer pollutants
Even low-cost carriers like Ryanair are making notable contributions. The airline, known for its cost-efficiency, operates a fleet of Boeing 737-800s and has invested in the latest Boeing 737 MAX models. These aircraft, designed specifically for high-frequency operations, consume 16 per cent less fuel than their predecessors, aligning cost savings with environmental benefits.
OPTIMISING OPERATIONAL EFFICIENCIES
Beyond fleet upgrades, airlines are innovating in operational practices to improve fuel efficiency. From real-time flight monitoring to optimised ground operations, these strategies reduce both costs and emissions.
American Airlines has extensively deployed winglet technology, a modification that improves aerodynamic efficiency. By reducing drag, winglets cut fuel consumption significantly across the airline’s large fleet. Additionally, the airline has invested in sophisticated flight planning software that identifies optimal altitudes and speeds, further enhancing efficiency.
Cathay Pacific has adopted a comprehensive approach through its “Eco-Dashboard.” This tool collects data from every stage of flight operations, enabling pilots and ground staff to make real-time adjustments that minimise fuel wastage. Such measures have saved Cathay tens of thousands of tonnes of carbon dioxide annually, reinforcing its commitment to operational excellence.
Meanwhile, Southwest Airlines focuses on streamlining ground operations. By reducing taxi times and idling on the runway, the airline has minimised unnecessary fuel burn, translating into both environmental and financial benefits.
EMPOWERING PASSENGERS
While operational improvements address direct emissions, carbon offsetting programmes offer airlines and passengers a way to mitigate their environmental impact further. These programmes fund projects such as reforestation, renewable energy development, and carbon capture initiatives.
Air France-KLM has embedded carbon offset options into its ticketing system. Passengers can directly support initiatives like forest conservation in South America or solar energy projects in India. This seamless integration encourages wider participation, with a growing percentage of travellers opting to neutralise their carbon footprint.
Etihad Airways has taken a bold step by showcasing the potential of net-zero emissions flights. The airline’s “Greenliner” initiative involves conducting demonstration flights using its Boeing 787 Dreamliner, powered by a combination of SAF, advanced route planning, and offsets. These flights serve as case studies for sustainable aviation practices, demonstrating feasibility and scalability for the broader industry.
Airlines are leveraging technology and operational efficiencies, such as AI-powered route optimisation, lightweight seating, and carbon offsetting programmes, to lower emissions and promote sustainability
Emirates has also introduced robust offset programmes, funding wildlife conservation projects in Africa. By linking its efforts to tangible environmental outcomes, the airline ensures transparency and accountability in its sustainability journey.
INNOVATIONS IN ELECTRIC AND HYBRID AIRCRAFT
The future of sustainable aviation may lie in groundbreaking technologies like electric and hybrid propulsion systems. Although still in their infancy, these technologies promise to revolutionise short-haul aviation.
easyJet has partnered with Wright Electric to develop a fully electric aircraft for routes under 500 kilometres. This collaboration aims to produce a commercially viable electric plane by 2030, which could significantly reduce emissions on high-frequency routes.
JetBlue Airways is exploring hybrid-electric solutions through its partnership with Zunum Aero. The focus is on regional routes, where hybrid aircraft could cut fuel use and emissions by 40 per cent. JetBlue’s investment signals its commitment to fostering innovation while addressing operational constraints.
INDUSTRY-WIDE SYNERGIES
The complexity of achieving sustainability necessitates collaboration across the aviation ecosystem. Airlines, airports, governments, and technology providers are joining forces to accelerate progress.
The Oneworld Alliance, comprising airlines like Japan Airlines, American Airlines, and Qatar Airways, has committed to net-zero emissions by 2050. Through shared resources and joint research projects, the alliance fosters innovation while maintaining high standards of accountability.
Lufthansa Group has extended its sustainability efforts to partnerships with airport operators and policymakers. One notable initiative is its collaboration with Frankfurt Airport to develop hydrogen infrastructure, which could facilitate the integration of hydrogen-powered aircraft into commercial operations.
A SUSTAINABLE HORIZON FOR AVIATION
The sustainability journey in aviation is both challenging and inspiring. Airlines are demonstrating remarkable innovation and commitment through initiatives that encompass immediate actions and long-term strategies. While SAF adoption, fleet modernisation, and operational optimisation are yielding tangible benefits, the industry’s ultimate success will depend on fostering technological breakthroughs and broadening collaborative efforts.
As airlines continue to invest in a greener future, they are not only transforming their operations but also reshaping the global aviation landscape. The path forward may be steep, but the collective determination to align air travel with environmental goals ensures a promising horizon for generations to come.