Friday, June 21, 2024
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Emirates Airlines has been proactive in enhancing flight efficiency through its “Green Operating Procedures” initiated in 2016. This initiative encompasses a comprehensive strategy aimed at reducing both on-ground and in-flight fuel consumption. By equipping pilots with advanced education, data analytics, and technology, Emirates focuses on optimizing flight management to achieve maximum efficiency.
An Operations Efficiency Steering Group within the airline directs efforts to reduce unnecessary fuel usage and emissions without compromising Emirates’ high safety standards. In the fiscal year 2023-2024, these efforts led to a significant reduction in fuel burn by over 48,000 tonnes and a decrease in carbon emissions exceeding 151,000 tonnes.
Captain Hassan Al Hammadi, Emirates’ Divisional Senior Vice President Flight Operations said: “We’re proud of the work done across the Flight Operations team, and the contributions of our pilots in significantly reducing fuel consumption and emissions. This could have only happened through collective discipline, commitment, and dedication to sustainable aviation practices in the cockpit, all while maintaining the highest levels of safety. We’ve equipped our pilot community with the latest tools and applications to monitor and review their flight performance, helping them to improve their awareness of how their flying techniques impact fuel consumption and emissions. We’ll continue to invest in cutting-edge technologies and accelerate solutions that yield long-term environmental benefits.”
Key operational strategies implemented by Emirates include:
- Discretionary Extra Fuel: Captains have the responsibility to ensure a safe amount of fuel is uplifted, with the option to carry extra as deemed necessary based on a thorough assessment of operational conditions. This strategy has effectively reduced the uptake of discretionary extra fuel.
- Flight Speed Optimization: Pilots adjust flight speeds based on a detailed analysis aimed at minimizing fuel use while adhering to schedule requirements.
- Reduced Flap Landings: Pilots select flap settings that minimize aerodynamic drag and fuel use, tailored to specific runway conditions, without sacrificing safety.
- Idle Reverse Thrust: This technique is used immediately upon landing to minimize fuel use during deceleration, adapted to the runway length and conditions.
- Reduced Engine Taxi-In (RETI): Post-landing, pilots may shut down one or more engines during taxiing, significantly increasing the prevalence of this fuel-saving practice.
- Optimized Flight Routings: Since 2003, Emirates has been optimizing flight paths to reduce fuel consumption and emissions, working closely with air traffic control and other entities.
- Technology and Innovation – Flight Pulse: In collaboration with GE Digital Aviation Services, Emirates introduced FlightPulse, a comprehensive pilot tool that enhances the monitoring of flight data, improving safety and operational efficiency.
- Centre of Gravity Optimization: Proper aircraft loading to optimize the center of gravity enhances aerodynamic efficiency, thereby conserving fuel.
- APU Usage: The airline minimizes the use of the auxiliary power unit (APU) on the ground, opting instead for electrical ground power units to lower emissions.
- Adjusted Potable Water Uplift: Emirates carefully calculates the amount of potable water needed for each flight, optimizing weight for fuel efficiency while ensuring passenger comfort.
These measures demonstrate Emirates’ dedication to pioneering sustainable aviation practices, continuously seeking innovative solutions to advance environmental stewardship.