Best of 2024: How aviation executives are charting the course to net zero
Jan 2, 2025
Aviation executives share their bold strategies for achieving net-zero emissions. Scandinavian Airlines is pushing for electric flights by 2028, while Alaska Airlines aims for carbon neutrality by 2040. Boeing is on track for 100% sustainable aviation fuel compatibility by 2030. Pittsburgh International Airport proudly operates off-grid and advances sustainable fuel options. Meanwhile, Truckee Tahoe Airport leads the way with full SAF adoption. Collaboration across the industry is key to turning sustainable ambitions into reality.
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insights INSIGHT
Multi-pronged Approach to Aviation Sustainability
Achieving aviation sustainability goals requires multiple approaches, including fleet renewal, operational efficiency, renewable energy, and advanced technology.
Boeing emphasizes a comprehensive strategy to address decarbonization challenges.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Setting Ambitious SAF Targets
Set ambitious SAF targets based on industry momentum and policy support, not just current supply.
IAG aims for 10% SAF by 2030, focusing on the growth potential of SAF production and policy support.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Pittsburgh Airport's Energy Innovation
Pittsburgh International Airport operates completely off-grid using a microgrid powered by on-site natural gas extraction.
They're exploring hydrothermal liquefaction to convert waste into SAF, demonstrating their commitment to energy innovation.
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In this special holiday episode, we re-visit conversations with six aviation industry executives about their approaches to sustainability and decarbonisation.
Scandinavian Airlines CEO Anko van der Werff shares how regional environmental consciousness shapes their strategy, combining SAF adoption with electric and hydrogen partnerships. Their first electric flight is scheduled for 2028.
Alaska Airlines SVP Diana Birkett Rakow details their 2040 net-zero target, with initiatives including employee bonus links to carbon targets and a partnership with Microsoft for synthetic fuel production.
Boeing’s Chief Sustainability Officer Brian Moran discusses their “SAF&” strategy and goal for 100% SAF-compatible aircraft by 2030. They’re advancing electric propulsion through their Saab 340B retrofit project.
Pittsburgh International Airport CEO Christina Cassotis reveals how they’ve operated completely off-grid for three years using a microgrid system, while developing multiple SAF pathways and an innovation testing ground.
Truckee Tahoe Airport GM Robb Etnyre describes becoming the first airport to fully adopt SAF, achieving price parity with conventional jet fuel at $8 per gallon.
IAG’s Group head of Sustainability Jonathon Counsell outlines their commitment to 10% SAF fuel use by 2030, emphasizing the importance of managing cost transitions across the industry.
If you LOVED this episode, you’ll also love all the conversations we had through the year with dozens of industry executives, technology leaders and scientists. Check out the archive 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 podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.
Sustainability In The Air