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In this episode, we speak with Valérie Guénon, Vice President of Product Environment Policies at Safran Aircraft Engines. She shares insights into how the company aims to tackle its environmental challenges through innovative engine design and sustainable fuel integration.
Guénon discusses Safran’s comprehensive approach to aviation sustainability, and highlights:
The RISE (Revolutionary Innovation for Sustainable Engines) program, developed in partnership with GE Aerospace that features an innovative open fan architecture that could significantly reduce fuel consumption by removing the heavy engine nacelle and optimising propulsive efficiency.Safran’s commitment to environmental research, with the company dedicating 88% of its self-funded research to environmental performance improvements, covering areas like CO2 reduction, noise reduction, and local air pollution mitigation.Safran is actively working to ensure engine compatibility with 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), addressing challenges beyond just combustion.Through the Renewable Low Carbon Fuels European Alliance, Safran chairs the aviation chamber and helps coordinate industry-wide efforts to scale up SAF production and adoption.The complexities of hydrogen adoption in aviation, drawing from Safran’s experience with rocket propulsion.Safran’s electrification initiatives that focus on smaller aircraft through Safran Electrical & Power.Throughout the conversation, Guénon emphasises that while engine manufacturers can’t control air traffic growth, they can significantly impact efficiency.
Guénon also shares her pioneering experience as a woman in aerospace engineering, highlighting how both cultural changes and legislation have improved gender equality in the field.
If you LOVED this episode, you’ll also love the conversation we had with Graham Webb, Chief Sustainability Officer at Pratt and Whitney. Check it out here.
Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry’s challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air’. Click here to learn more.
Feel free to reach out via email to [email protected]. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.
Links & More:
Sustainability - Safran
How Safran is helping to develop sustainable fuels - Safran
GE Aviation and Safran launch advanced technology demonstration programme for sustainable engines - ERA
Safran invests €1bn to develop global MRO network for LEAP engine - Aerospace Manufacturing
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In this episode, we talk to Kennedy Ricci, President of 4AIR, who shares insights into how business aviation can accelerate sustainability initiatives that could benefit the entire industry.
4AIR helps private aviation stakeholders implement impactful sustainability programs, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and industry commitments through independent reviews. Ricci explains 4AIR’s broad approach to aviation sustainability, that extends beyond traditional carbon offsetting.
He discusses:
The development of 4AIR’s four-tier rating system for aviation sustainability, starting with carbon offsetting and progressing to more advanced solutions including SAF usage and investment in future technologies.Recent research on contrail reduction shows that adjusting just 50 flights out of nearly 17,000 could reduce the non-CO2 impact by about 50%. The study also found that 70% of contrail-producing flights could have avoided contrails by flying at different altitudes.The stark difference in contrail formation between US and European operations, with aircraft making contrails almost twice as frequently in Europe due to air traffic control (ATC) practices, highlighting the importance of ATC cooperation in sustainability efforts.Business aviation’s outsized role in sustainable aviation fuel adoption, consuming about 10-15% of global SAF production despite representing only 2% of aviation fuel usage, effectively serving as an early adopter for the broader industry.The implementation of innovative tracking solutions through their Assure platform, which has documented over 15 million gallons of SAF and helped establish a more robust system for tracking sustainable fuel usage.If you LOVED this episode, you’ll also love the conversation we had with Eloa Guillotin, Co-Founder & CEO of Beyond Aero. Check it out here.
Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry’s challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air’. Click here to learn more.
Feel free to reach out via email to [email protected]. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.
Links & More:
4AIR
4AIR launches Assure SAF registry to track and validate sustainable aviation fuel - Financial Post
4AIR awarded prestigious recognition by Environment+Energy - GlobeNewswire
‘Small changes to aircraft routings’ could reduce environmental impact - AGN
4Air compliance services expands with 21 more environmental requirements - Aviation International News
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In this episode, we speak with Christina Cassotis, CEO of Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT), who shares her ambitious vision for transforming the airport into a sustainable aviation hub.
Cassotis discusses Pittsburgh’s unique position and innovative approach to aviation sustainability. She highlights several key initiatives:
PIT has achieved a remarkable milestone as the world’s first fully off-grid major airport. Through a public-private partnership, the airport commissioned a microgrid in 2021 that powers its entire operation. The airport is developing three SAF production pathways: alcohol-to-jet technology using ethanol, fugitive methane capture, and hydrothermal liquefaction converting organic waste to fuel.Their hydrogen strategy includes testing hydrogen-powered ground equipment like snowplows, developing distributed production technology, and establishing themselves as a regional hydrogen hub supporting both airport and public transportation needs.PIT leverages unique assets including its location above the Marcellus Shale natural gas deposit, existing fuel infrastructure with export capability, Carnegie Mellon University partnership, and the region’s energy innovation legacy.Opening in 2025, their new LEED Gold terminal features rainwater capture systems, recycled construction materials, and a design optimised for origin and destination traffic, reflecting their evolution from a former US Airways hub.Throughout the conversation, Cassotis emphasises the importance of taking incremental steps toward sustainability targets, sharing knowledge across the industry, and maintaining a balance between environmental protection and operational efficiency. Her vision extends beyond Pittsburgh, aiming to create a model that other airports can learn from and adapt.
If you LOVED this episode, you’ll also love the conversation we had with Robb Etnyre, General Manager of Truckee Tahoe Airport. Check it out here.
Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry’s challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air’. Click here to learn more.
Feel free to reach out via email to [email protected]. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.
Links & More:
Pittsburgh Airport aims to be a ‘trailblazer’ in SAF production - Aviation Week Network
PIT Named Among World’s Best in Environmental Sustainability - Blue Sky News
Making Pittsburgh a global leader in green aviation - Carnegie Mellon University
KeyState, CNX advancing transformational hydrogen and sustainable aviation fuel hub at Pittsburgh International Airport - PR Newswire
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In this episode, we talk to Professor Robert Miller, Director of the Whittle Laboratory at the University of Cambridge, who shares why 2030 targets are crucial for the aviation industry’s transition towards net zero.
Miller is also the head of the Aviation Impact Accelerator (AIA), a collaboration between the Whittle Laboratory and the Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership. The AIA recently released the “Five Years to Chart a New Future for Aviation” report which outlined 4 key Sustainable Aviation Goals, which, if achieved in the next 5 years, can help aviation reach net-zero by 2050.
Miller shares insights into the recently released report and highlights several key issues:
The misconception of smooth technology transitions, emphasising that historical precedents show abrupt changes with usually one dominant solution emerging, similar to VHS vs Betamax or cars vs horses.Operation Blue Skies which seeks to address persistent contrails by setting up “Airspace-Scale Living Labs”.The introduction of bold efficiency measures that could halve fuel burn by 2050, including reducing aircraft life from 30 to 15 years, flying 15% slower, and better matching aircraft to route distances.The challenges of scaling Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) within global biomass limitations, with potential ticket price increases ranging from 30%-90% depending on production method.The opportunity for hydrogen adoption in long-haul aviation, with potential for 10-30% fleet penetration by 2050, focusing initially on the 50 largest hub airports that consume half of global jet fuel.The importance of launching moonshot technology demonstrations by 2030, including cryogenic hydrogen/methane fuels, synthetic biology, and hydrogen-electric propulsion.Throughout the conversation, Miller emphasises the urgency of immediate action. He stresses that while only 10% of the global population has flown, expanding access to air travel must be balanced with aggressive decarbonisation efforts.
If you LOVED this episode, you’ll also love the conversation we had with Dr Florian Allroggen, Executive Director, Aerospace Climate & Sustainability, and a Research Scientist in MIT’s Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics, who shares the science behind contrails, their climate impact, and practical solutions for mitigation. Check it out here.
Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry’s challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air’. Click here to learn more.
Feel free to reach out via email to [email protected]. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.
Links & More:
Aviation Impact Accelerator
The Whittle Laboratory
Five Years to Chart a New Future for Aviation - Aviation Impact Accelerator
Cambridge report sets four goals to be implemented by 2030 for global aviation to reach Net Zero - GreenAir News
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In this episode, we talk to Anna Stukas, Vice President of Strategic Partnerships at 1PointFive, who shares insights into how direct air capture (DAC) technology works and its crucial role in aviation’s journey to net zero.
Stukas, who has been working in carbon capture since 2015, discusses her role in commercialising DAC technology and developing strategic partnerships to scale this critical climate solution.
Stukas discusses:
The fundamental role of DAC in climate action, explaining how it captures CO2 directly from the atmosphere through an engineered system that mimics natural processes but operates more efficiently and with a smaller land footprint than trees.The scalability of DAC technology, exemplified by the STRATOS facility in Texas which, once completed, will capture up to 500,000 tons of CO2 annually.The critical importance of industry partnerships, including Airbus’s pre-purchase of 400,000 tons of carbon removal and subsequent agreements with airlines like easyJet, Air Canada, and Lufthansa; as well as Microsoft’s landmark 500,000 metric tons purchase agreement.The secure storage of captured CO2 deep underground, where it mineralises into calcium carbonate over geological timescales.The integration with renewable energy infrastructure, with facilities like STRATOS being powered by adjacent solar installations, creating additional opportunities for clean energy development.The complementary relationship between DAC and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), with DAC addressing residual emissions while potentially serving as a future feedstock for SAF production.Throughout the conversation, Stukas emphasises that while DAC is not a “get-out-of-jail-free card”, it represents an essential tool in aviation’s decarbonisation toolkit.
If you LOVED this episode, you’ll also love the conversation we had with Jane Ashton, Director of Sustainability at easyJet. Check it out here.
Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry’s challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air’. Click here to learn more.
Feel free to reach out via email to [email protected]. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.
Links & More:
1PointFive
Ector County DAC - STRATOS - 1PointFive
Occidental’s 1PointFive secures funding of up to $500 million from US DOE - Reuters
1PointFive announces agreement to sell 500,000 metric tons of direct air capture carbon removal credits to Microsoft - GlobeNewswire
ANA and easyJet commit to buying carbon dioxide removal credits from 1PointFive’s Texas DAC facility - GreenAir News -
In this episode, we talk to Dr Florian Allroggen, Executive Director, Aerospace Climate & Sustainability, and a Research Scientist in MIT’s Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics, who shares insights into the science of contrails and their impact on aviation’s climate footprint.
Allroggen discusses his role, focusing on understanding aviation’s environmental impact and developing solutions for a net-zero pathway. He highlights several key issues:
The formation of contrails as ice clouds when aircraft exhaust meets cold atmospheric conditions, and their dual role in both warming and cooling the atmosphere.The comparable magnitude of contrail warming effects to CO2 emissions, with varying impacts depending on the timeframe considered – contrails having larger short-term effects while CO2’s impact accumulates over centuries.The potential for contrail avoidance through flight path adjustments, particularly by changing aircraft altitude rather than horizontal routing, due to the “pancake-like” nature of contrail-forming regions.The development of real-time contrail detection technology using NASA satellite imagery and machine learning, currently being tested with Delta Air Lines.The challenges of implementing contrail avoidance strategies, including the need for air traffic control coordination and the balance between fuel efficiency and contrail reduction.The need for a holistic approach to aviation sustainability, addressing both CO2 and non-CO2 impacts while maintaining safety.Throughout the conversation, Allroggen advocates for practical experimentation and implementation of contrail mitigation strategies, while acknowledging the uncertainties and challenges involved. He emphasises the importance of making robust decisions despite uncertainties, drawing parallels with everyday decision-making under uncertain conditions.
If you LOVED this episode, you’ll also love the conversation we had with Maxime Meijers and Nicolas Meijers, co-founders of Estuaire. Check it out here.
Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry’s challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air’. Click here to learn more.
Feel free to reach out via email to [email protected]. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.
Links & More:
Impacts of multi-layer overlap on contrail radiative forcing - DOAJ
Climate - MIT LAE
Delta to work with MIT to study impact of airplane contrails on climate - CEHS
How rerouting planes to produce fewer contrails could help cool the planet - MIT Technology Review
How Estuaire’s data platform can help airlines and airports make better sustainability decisions - SimpliFlying
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In this episode, we talk to Karine Guenan, Vice President of ZEROe ecosystem at Airbus, who shares insights into Airbus’s ambitious plans to bring hydrogen-powered commercial aircraft to market by 2035 and the unprecedented ecosystem development required to make this vision a reality.
The technical challenges of developing hydrogen-powered aircraft, including the need for cryogenic storage at -253° C and specially designed insulated tanks, contrasting with traditional jet fuel storage in aircraft wings.Airbus’s exploration of two potential technological platforms - fuel cell propulsion and direct hydrogen combustion - aimed at serving the 100-200 seat market with ranges of 1,000-2,000 nautical miles.The extensive ecosystem partnerships being built worldwide, including collaborations with airports (like Gatwick), energy suppliers (like Air Products), airlines (like easyJet), and lessors (like Avalon) to create the infrastructure needed for hydrogen-powered aviation.The advantages of hydrogen as a zero-emission fuel source when produced from renewable energy, including its potential to reduce both CO2 and non-CO2 emissions.The safety considerations around hydrogen aviation, emphasising that hydrogen is non-toxic and actually dissipates more quickly than conventional fuels in case of leakage.
Guenan discusses:Throughout the conversation, Guenan emphasises that while the 2035 target for commercial entry into service is ambitious, it’s achievable through unprecedented collaboration across the aviation industry and beyond. She notes that while hydrogen aircraft will have a marginal impact by 2050, they represent a crucial long-term solution for aviation’s decarbonisation challenge.
Looking to the future, Guenan advocates for a multi-pronged approach to aviation sustainability, combining immediate solutions like sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) with longer-term transformative technologies like hydrogen-powered aircraft.
If you LOVED this episode, you’ll also love the conversation we had with Jane Ashton, Director of Sustainability at easyJet. Check it out here.
Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry’s challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air’. Click here to learn more.
Feel free to reach out via email to [email protected]. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.
Links & More:
ZEROe - Airbus
First ZEROe engine fuel cell successfully powers on - AGN
Airbus partners with Avolon to explore future of hydrogen aviation - Fuel Cells Works
Airbus to begin hydrogen fuel feasibility studies with North American airports - Flight Global -
In this episode, we talk to Yann Cabaret, CEO of SITA FOR AIRCRAFT, the aircraft business arm of SITA Group. Cabaret shares how SITA’s technology can help airlines meet their sustainability goals through better operational efficiency and compliance management. He also shares insights into SITA’s digital platforms and solutions aimed at reducing aviation’s environmental impact.
Cabaret discusses:
SITA EcoMission, a new platform that helps airlines manage environmental compliance while optimising costs, bringing together different departments – from flight operations to finance – for better collaboration.How SITA OptiFlight is helping airlines achieve up to 5% fuel savings during climb-out phase by analysing aircraft-specific data and providing recommendations to pilots.The future challenges of balancing multiple environmental factors, such as choosing between CO2 emissions and contrail avoidance, and how technology can help make these complex decisions manageable.The vital role of operational efficiency as one of the few immediate levers airlines can pull today to become more sustainable, rather than waiting for future technologies like hydrogen or electric aircraft.Throughout the conversation, Cabaret emphasises that while compliance and reporting are important, SITA’s ultimate goal is to help airlines reduce their environmental impact through better data and decision-making tools. He notes that SITA’s solutions can help reduce compliance costs by 3% while reducing staff requirements by 30%.
Looking to the future, Cabaret expresses optimism about the future of aviation, citing developments in operational efficiency, sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), new engine technologies, and especially the influx of young talent who believe in making aviation more sustainable.
If you LOVED this episode, you’ll also love the conversation we had with Sian Andrews, SESAR Environmental Lead at NATS. Check it out here.
Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry’s challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air’. Click here to learn more.
Feel free to reach out via email to [email protected]. For more content visit green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.
Links & More:
SITA FOR AIRCRAFT
SITA Eco Mission - SITA
Now more than ever fuel efficiency crucial to ops - Aerospace Tech Review
Bringing data science into the cockpit to reduce fuel burn and carbon emission - Aviation Week Network
Why flight paths matter more than you think for climate change - SimpliFlying -
In this episode, we talk to Sian Andrews, SESAR Environmental Lead at NATS, UK’s leading provider of air traffic control services. She shares insights into how air traffic management can significantly reduce aviation’s environmental impact through innovative solutions and research projects.
Andrews discusses:
NATS’ role in making aviation sustainable through improved air traffic management, including their targets to reach net zero emissions by 2035.The significant but often overlooked impact of contrails on climate change, explaining they can have warming effects comparable to CO2 emissions, particularly during nighttime operations.The CICONIA project, led by Airbus and involving NATS, which aims to develop operational solutions for contrail avoidance while balancing fuel efficiency and air traffic management constraints.The concept of “green route charging”, which aims to eliminate pricing incentives that can lead airlines to fly longer, less fuel-efficient routes to avoid high-cost airspace.The Digital European Sky initiative, which combines various SESAR solutions to create a more efficient and environmentally conscious air traffic management system for the future.Throughout the conversation, Andrews emphasises that while safety remains the absolute priority in air traffic control, environmental considerations have become increasingly important, with NATS being one of the few air navigation service providers regulated on environmental performance through their 3DI (three-dimensional insight) metric.
Looking to the future, Andrews advocates for a balanced approach that considers both operational efficiency and environmental impact to shape the future of aviation.
If you LOVED this episode, you’ll also love the conversation we had with Maxime Meijers and Nicolas Meijers, co-founders of Estuaire, who share how their data platform can help airlines and airports make better sustainability decisions. Check it out here.
Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry’s challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air’. Click here to learn more.
Feel free to reach out via email to [email protected]. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.
Links & More:
NATS
NATS and SESAR – working together to deliver a Single European Sky
Leading the Way in Contrail Avoidance - NATS
How Estuaire’s data platform can help airlines and airports make better sustainability decisions
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In this episode, we talk to Bertrand Piccard, renowned Swiss explorer, psychiatrist and clean technology pioneer. He shares insights into his ambitious Climate Impulse project that aims to set a historic precedent by flying a hydrogen aircraft around the world non-stop in 9 days.
Piccard achieved global recognition for completing the first non-stop balloon flight around the world and for co-piloting Solar Impulse, the first solar-powered aircraft to circumnavigate the globe. As the founder and chairman of the Solar Impulse Foundation, Piccard continues to advocate for environmental solutions and push the boundaries of sustainable technology.
Piccard discusses:
The Climate Impulse project, aiming to fly around the world non-stop using liquid hydrogen, showcasing the potential of zero-emission aviation.The technical aspects of the hydrogen-powered aircraft, including the challenges of storing liquid hydrogen at extremely low temperatures and the efficiency of fuel cells.His vision for the future of sustainable aviation, emphasising the need for a shift towards more efficient technologies and practices beyond just hydrogen power.His perspective on the current state of aviation, including his stance on ticket pricing and the need for a more sustainable approach to air travel.The lessons learned from his previous projects, including Solar Impulse, and how these experiences inform his current endeavours.Throughout the conversation, Piccard emphasises the importance of pushing boundaries in technology and human capability. Looking to the future, he expresses optimism about the potential of hydrogen in aviation, while acknowledging the challenges of implementation and the need for a holistic approach to sustainability in the industry.
If you LOVED this episode, you’ll also love the conversation we had with John Pagano, CEO of Red Sea Global, who shares how the developer is spearheading a new model of eco-tourism on the west coast of Saudia Arabia. Check it out here.
Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry’s challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air’. Click here to learn more.
Feel free to reach out via email to [email protected]. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.
Links & More:
Climate Impulse
Swiss adventurer Bertrand Piccard announces nonstop, round-the-world hydrogen flight - GreenAir News
This could be the first hydrogen-powered aircraft to fly non-stop around the globe - CNBC
Solar Impulse Foundation
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In this episode, we talk to Lee Beck, Senior Director for Europe and the Middle East, and Thomas Walker, Transportation Technology Manager at Clean Air Task Force (CATF), who share insights into innovative solutions for decarbonising the aviation industry.
Beck and Walker discuss CATF's role as a global climate organisation focused on overlooked solutions for decarbonisation and provide a forward-looking perspective on the future of sustainable aviation. They highlight several key issues:
The potential of synthetic fuels to make up over 50% of aviation fuel by 2050, and the policy measures necessary to achieve this ambitious goal.The limitations of biofuels in meeting long-term aviation demand, and the need to explore alternative fuel sources.The promise and challenges of hydrogen-powered aircraft, particularly for regional flights, and the significant infrastructure changes required.The potential of ammonia as an aviation fuel, its advantages over hydrogen, and the hurdles to its adoption.The current limitations of electric aircraft due to battery energy density constraints, and their potential niche applications.The importance of carbon capture and storage in producing synthetic fuels and decarbonising the aviation industry.The need for an options-based approach to decarbonisation, maintaining multiple technological pathways to address the complex challenge of aviation emissions.Throughout the conversation, Beck and Walker advocate for a diverse portfolio of solutions and strong international collaboration to address aviation's environmental impact, while expressing cautious optimism about the sector's ability to achieve significant emissions reductions in the coming decades.
If you LOVED this episode, you’ll also love the conversation we had with Andrew Chen, Principal for Aviation Decarbonisation at RMI, who shares the RMI’s multi-faceted approach to aviation decarbonisation. Check it out here.
Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry’s challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air’. Click here to learn more.
Feel free to reach out via email to [email protected]. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.
Links & More:
About Us – Clean Air Task Force
Decarbonizing Aviation: Enabling Technologies for a Net-Zero Future - CATF
Decarbonizing Aviation: Challenges and Opportunities for Emerging Fuels - CATF
Could ammonia have a role in decarbonising aviation? - AEF
Why RMI’s multi-pronged approach to decarbonising aviation includes SAF & contrails - SimpliFlying
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In this episode, we talk to Anko van der Werff, President & CEO of Scandinavian Airlines (SAS), who shares insights into the airline’s ambitious sustainability initiatives and how they’re shaped by the unique environmental consciousness of Scandinavia.
SAS, a longstanding Scandinavian carrier, faces distinct challenges and opportunities in its sustainability journey due to the region’s deep-rooted environmental awareness and geographical characteristics. Van der Werff discusses:
The profound impact of Scandinavian environmental consciousness on SAS’s sustainability strategy, which goes beyond compliance to integrate sustainability into all aspects of operations.The critical role of aviation in Scandinavia, serving as an essential connector for the region’s dispersed population across large, elongated countries.SAS’s three-pillar approach to achieve sustainable aviation: Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), electric aviation, and hydrogen technology.The airline’s Conscious Traveler program, which educates and incentivises passengers to make sustainable choices, including the option to purchase SAF.The airline’s bold move into electric aviation, including a partnership with Heart Aerospace and the sale of tickets for a fully electric flight scheduled for 2028.Throughout the conversation, van der Werff emphasises the delicate balance SAS must strike between maintaining essential air connectivity and leading in sustainability efforts. Looking to the future, he expresses optimism about technological advancements in electric and hydrogen aviation, while acknowledging the challenges of high costs and the need for industry-wide collaboration to scale up sustainable solutions.
If you LOVED this episode, you’ll also love the conversation we had with Anders Forslund, CEO of Heart Aerospace. Check it out here.
Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry’s challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air’. Click here to learn more.
Feel free to reach out via email to [email protected]. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.
Links & More:
EuroBonus conscious traveler - SAS
Scandinavian Airline SAS taking bookings for first electric flight on ES-30 aircraft in 2028 - Aviation International News
Restructured SAS formally joins SkyTeam after withdrawal from Star Alliance - Flight Global
First swedish airport joins SAS’ corporate sustainability program - Simple FlyingSAS successfully emerges from restructuring, poised for a new era as Scandinavia’s leading airline - Aviation24.be
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In this episode, we talk to Sarah Ellerby, CEO of Nova Pangaea Technologies (NPT), a UK-based cleantech company that has created a patented technology called the REFNOVA®, to enable SAF production from agricultural and forestry waste.
Ellerby discusses:
NPT’s REFNOVA® technology, which processes non-food derived feedstocks such as sugarcane bagasse and wheat straw into SAF precursors.The dual-product output of the REFNOVA® process: sustainable sugars for SAF production and biochar for soil enhancement and carbon sequestration.Project Speedbird, a collaboration between Nova Pangaea Technologies, British Airways, and LanzaJet, which has secured £9 million in UK government funding.The challenges of scaling SAF production, including the need for significant investment and the importance of a blended finance approach involving both public and private sectors.Throughout the conversation, Ellerby emphasises the critical role of strategic partnerships and government support in advancing SAF production. She also shares NPT’s efforts to de-risk their technology and business model to attract larger investments needed for commercial-scale production.
Looking to the future, Ellerby outlines NPT’s goals for scaling up production to meet the UK’s SAF mandates, while acknowledging the challenges in funding and executing large-scale projects.
If you LOVED this episode, you’ll also love the conversation we had with Jimmy Samartzis, CEO of LanzaJet, who shares the company’s journey in developing the world’s first proven ATJ technology that converts ethanol into SAF and renewable diesel. Check it out here.
Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry’s challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air’. Click here to learn more.
Feel free to reach out via email to [email protected]. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.
Links & More:
Our biomass refinement process - Nova Pangaea Technologies
Project Speedbird wins £9m UK funding for SAF production - Biofuels International Magazine
New investment in Nova Pangaea Technologies added to IAG’s $865 million SAF commitment - GreenAir News
LanzaJet plans to produce 1 billion gallons of SAF by 2030 - SimpliFlying
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In this episode, we talk to Freshta Farzam, founder and CEO of LYTE Aviation, who shares the company’s innovative approach to developing a 40-seater eVTOL aircraft for regional travel and cargo transport.
Farzam discusses:
The inspiration behind LYTE Aviation’s focus on larger capacity eVTOLs, challenging the industry trend of smaller air taxis.The company’s diverse eVTOL portfolio, which includes the 40-seat SkyBus, the SkyTruck for cargo, and a 19-seat version for business aviation.LYTE Aviation’s target markets, including supplementing ferry routes and creating new regional air connections.Why LYTE uses hybrid propulsion systems, combining turboprop engines with electric motors powered by hydrogen fuel cells.The infrastructure requirements and partnerships necessary for high-capacity eVTOL operations, and how LYTE’s eVTOLs can transform global transportation in the next 10-15 years.Farzam emphasises the potential of larger eVTOLs to disrupt regional transportation, and contribute to the aviation industry’s sustainability journey. She discusses the challenges and opportunities in developing new air routes and collaborating with existing transportation providers.
Looking to the future, Farzam envisions LYTE Aviation’s aircraft becoming a new norm in regional travel, potentially running on 100% hydrogen fuel.
If you LOVED this episode, you’ll also love the conversation we had with Bonny Simi, Head of Air Operations and People at Joby Aviation, who shares how Joby has become one of the leading players in the eVTOL space. Check it out here.
Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry’s challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air’. Click here to learn more.
Feel free to reach out via email to [email protected]. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.
Links & More:
LYTE Aviation
From retro inspiration to futuristic mobility: LYTE Aviation’s SkyBus - SimpliFlying
LYTE Aviation partners with Crisalion Mobility on last mile transport - Revolution.aero
LYTE Aviation sets sights on mass transit eVTOLs - Aviation Week Network
Joby wants to alleviate the pain and frustration of getting from home to your airline seat - SimpliFlying
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In this episode, we talk to Maxime Meijers and Nicolas Meijers, co-founders of Estuaire, who share insights into their innovative data platform that provides comprehensive climate impact assessments for the aviation industry.
Maxime and Nicolas share:
The development of Estuaire’s data platform, which fuses various data sources to provide granular and exhaustive climate impact modelling for individual flights.The significant impact of non-CO2 emissions, particularly contrails, which can represent an additional 30% climate impact on top of CO2 emissions.The importance of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) in reducing both CO2 and non-CO2 emissions, and Estuaire’s approach to optimising SAF allocation for maximum climate benefit.The surprising finding that only 2% of flights are responsible for 80% of aviation’s contrail warming effect, and how Estuaire’s technology helps identify these high-impact flights.The potential for airlines to achieve significant climate savings through small changes in flight operations, such as slight altitude adjustments to avoid contrail-prone areas.Throughout the conversation, Maxime and Nicolas emphasise the unique transparency of the aviation sector and how Estuaire leverages this data to drive actionable insights for airlines, airports, and other stakeholders in the aviation ecosystem. Looking to the future, they discuss their ambitious goal of having 10 major airlines successfully implement contrail mitigation programs within the next year, showcasing the potential for rapid progress in sustainable aviation practices.
If you LOVED this episode, you’ll also love the conversation we had with Alejandra Martín Frías, Head of Sustainability Research at FLIGHTKEYS, who shares insights into the company’s research on contrail avoidance and its potential impact on aviation sustainability. Check it out here.
Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry’s challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air’. Click here to learn more.
Feel free to reach out via email to [email protected]. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.
Links & More:
Estuaire
Contrail Index - Estuaire
ESTUAIRE raises €2.2M in seed round to reduce the climate impact of aviation - Safran
How FLIGHTKEYS promises major climate gains at a minimal cost - SimpliFlying
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In this episode, we talk to Delphine Millot, Senior Vice President for Advocacy & Sustainability at Global Business Travel Association (GBTA), who shares insights into GBTA’s initiatives to promote sustainability in business travel and the challenges faced by the industry.
Millot also serves as the Managing Director of the GBTA Foundation, which serves as the charitable arm of GBTA, focusing on workforce development, women empowerment, and addressing climate challenges in the business travel sector.
Millot discusses:
The role of GBTA in developing global sustainable procurement criteria for business travel, covering various sectors including aviation, hotels, and ground transportation.The significant impact of business travel on corporate emissions, with some companies seeing up to 80% of their scope 3 emissions coming from business travel.The importance of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) in decarbonising aviation and GBTA’s efforts to promote corporate investment in SAF certificates.Regional differences in sustainability efforts, with Europe leading the way due to cultural awareness, infrastructure, and regulatory pressures.The collaboration between travel managers and sustainability teams within companies to drive meaningful change in business travel practices.Throughout the conversation, Millot emphasises the need for a balanced approach to sustainability in business travel, acknowledging its importance while recognising the essential role of travel in global business. Looking to the future, she discusses GBTA’s upcoming acceleration challenge for the global business travel industry, which aims to track and encourage progress in sustainable travel practices.
If you LOVED this episode, you’ll also love the conversation we had with Nora Lovell Marchant, Vice President of Global Sustainability at American Express Global Business Travel (Amex GBT). She discusses various initiatives such as a blockchain-powered SAF platform, an independently verified carbon offsetting programme and more. Check it out here.
Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry’s challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air’. Click here to learn more.
Feel free to reach out via email to [email protected]. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.
Links & More:
Global Business Travel Association
Sustainability - GBTA
Sustainability Acceleration Challenge - GBTA
How Amex GBT is building platforms for SAF and Carbon Offsets - SimpliFlying
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In this episode, we talk to Tim Boeltken, Founder and Managing Director at INERATEC, who shares insights into the innovative world of e-fuels and their potential to transform the aviation industry and beyond.
INERATEC is at the forefront of e-fuel production, developing modular technology that converts green hydrogen and carbon dioxide into carbon-neutral liquid fuels, including sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).
Boeltken discusses:
The basics of e-fuel production, describing it as “liquefied electricity” and explaining the process of combining green hydrogen and CO2 to create various fuel fractions.Strategies to overcome the challenges of high production costs and input scarcity, including modular production units and strategic site selection.The construction of INERATEC’s Pioneer Plant in Frankfurt, Germany, which will produce 2,500 tonnes of e-fuel annually and marks the company’s transition from technology provider to fuel producer.The current state of e-fuel adoption across various industries, with aviation lagging behind maritime and road transportation despite its long-term potential.The importance of strategic partnerships in scaling e-fuel production, including collaborations with companies like Safran, Engie, and Synhelion.Throughout the conversation, Boeltken emphasises the transformative potential of e-fuels in decarbonising hard-to-abate sectors and the need for continued innovation and collaboration. Looking to the future, he expresses optimism about the scalability of e-fuel production and its role in achieving global sustainability goals, particularly in the aviation industry.
If you LOVED this episode, you’ll also love the conversation we had with Amy Hebert, Chair of the Board and CEO at Arcadia eFuels. Check it out here.
Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry’s challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air’. Click here to learn more.
Feel free to reach out via email to [email protected]. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.
Links & More:
Sustainable e-Fuels Startup INERATEC Raises $129 Million - ESG Today
INERATEC and COPEC enter strategic partnership to spearhead e-Fuel availability in Chile - BNamericas
Safran and Engie New Ventures invest in Ineratec, a German startup specializing in carbon-neutral synthetic fuels - Safran
INERATEC and Clariant join forces for a cleaner future - Hydrocarbon Engineering
INERATEC and Zenith plan new e-fuels plant in port of Amsterdam - Offshore Energy
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In this episode, we talk to Billie Moore, Chief Executive at NZ Airports Association, who shares insights into New Zealand’s distinctive approach to sustainable aviation and the challenges of operating in an isolated island nation.
In essence, the NZ Airports Association serves as a central hub for coordination, advocacy, and knowledge sharing among New Zealand’s airports, with a particular focus on navigating the challenges of sustainability and decarbonisation in the aviation sector.
Moore discusses:
The critical role of aviation in New Zealand, serving as an essential connection to the world and within the country, reshaping its geography and allowing New Zealanders to “live global lives”.New Zealand’s roadmap to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050, including exploration of electric aircraft, green hydrogen, and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).The collaborative efforts between airports, airlines, and the government, exemplified by Air New Zealand’s Flight NZ0 project and the involvement of various airports in testing new technologies.The potential of electric aircraft for domestic routes, with 60% of Air New Zealand’s domestic flights being turboprops flying less than 350 kilometres.The challenges and opportunities in SAF adoption, including New Zealand’s distance from major SAF markets and potential partnerships with Australia.Looking to the future, Moore expresses hope for continued international collaboration and information sharing, which will be crucial for small countries like New Zealand in addressing global aviation sustainability challenges.
If you LOVED this episode, you’ll also love the conversation we had with Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai International Airports. Check it out here.
Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry’s challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air’. Click here to learn more.
Feel free to reach out via email to [email protected]. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.
Links & More:
NZ Airports Association
Air New Zealand’s Flight NZ0, a decade-long journey towards carbon neutrality – Inside Tourism
Hydrogen Consortium launched to promote green air travel in New Zealand - Airport Technology
Air New Zealand receives 500,000-litre delivery of SAF - Biodiesel Magazine
Air New Zealand is first major airline to scrap 2030 emissions target - The Guardian
How do you decarbonise a major airport? - SimpliFlying
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In this episode, we talk to Matt Finch, UK Policy Manager at Transport & Environment (T&E), who shares insights into the challenges and opportunities in sustainable aviation.
Finch discusses T&E's role as Europe's leading advocate for clean transport and provides a critical perspective on current efforts to decarbonise the aviation industry. He highlights several key issues:
The lack of fuel duty on aviation fuel, which Finch argues artificially suppresses the cost of air travel and hinders the transition to more sustainable alternatives.The UK's Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) mandate, its strengths and weaknesses, and the challenges in scaling up SAF production.The potential of alternative technologies such as hydrogen and electric aircraft, and the need for stronger government support to accelerate their development and adoption.The environmental impact of airport expansion and the need for more stringent conditions on growth.The importance of addressing non-CO2 impacts of aviation, which Finch says account for two-thirds of the sector's overall climate impact.Throughout the conversation, Finch advocates for more ambitious policies and actions to address aviation's environmental impact, while remaining cautiously optimistic about the potential for progress in the sector.
If you LOVED this episode, you’ll also love the conversation we had with Hiske Arts, Campaigner at Fossil Free Netherlands (Fossielvrij NL), who explains why climate activists don’t buy the aviation industry’s commitment to addressing climate concerns. Check it out here.
Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry’s challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air’. Click here to learn more.
Feel free to reach out via email to [email protected]. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.
Links & More:
Aviation - T&E
Roadmap to climate neutral aviation in Europe - T&E
UK to implement SAF mandate beginning in 2025 - Biomass Magazine
The current state of scientific understanding of the non-CO2 effects of aviation on climate - David Lee
The ICCT’s bitter but essential prescription for net zero emissions by 2050 - SimpliFlying
➡️ Can climate activists and the aviation industry ever get along? - SimpliFlying
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In this episode, we talk to Alanna James, Managing Director Sustainability Initiatives at Hawaiian Airlines, who shares insights into the airline's distinctive approach to sustainability and the challenges of operating in an island environment.
Hawaiian Airlines, a 94-year-old company headquartered in Honolulu, faces unique sustainability challenges due to Hawaii's geographic isolation and vulnerability to climate change. James discusses:
The airline's deep connection to Hawaii and how it informs their approach to sustainability, which goes beyond environmental concerns to include economic and cultural sustainability.The critical role of air travel in Hawaii, serving as an essential "highway system" for inter-island connectivity and supporting the state's tourism-based economy.Hawaiian Airlines' roadmap to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050, including fleet renewal, operational efficiencies, next-generation aircraft, and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).The airline's ambitious goal to use 10% SAF by 2030 and the strategies they're employing to achieve this, including partnerships with SAF suppliers and efforts to develop local SAF production in Hawaii.Exploration of innovative technologies like electric sea gliders for inter-island travel and the potential role of hydrogen-powered aircraft in the future.Throughout the conversation, James emphasises the delicate balance Hawaiian Airlines must strike between maintaining essential air connectivity and preserving Hawaii's natural beauty and resources.
If you LOVED this episode, you’ll also love the conversation we had with Diana Birkett Rakow, Senior Vice President of Public Affairs & Sustainability at Alaska Airlines, who shares how the airline is planning to achieve net zero emissions by 2040. Check it out here.
Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry’s challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air’. Click here to learn more.
Feel free to reach out via email to [email protected]. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.
Links & More:
Environmental Stewardship - Hawaiian Airlines
Hawaii Renewable Fuels Coalition
Hawaiian Airlines invests in Regent seagliders - ch-aviation
Hawaiian Airlines Commits to New Milestones on Path to Net-Zero Carbon Emissions - Hawaiian Airlines
Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines to Combine, Expanding Benefits and Choice for Travelers Throughout Hawai‘i and the West Coast
Alaska Airlines’ multi-faceted approach to achieving net zero by 2040 - SimpliFlying - Visa fler
