Sustainability In The Air

In this episode, we speak with SimpliFlying’s CEO Shashank Nigam, and Head of Sustainability Dirk Singer, about the launch of their brand new book, ‘Sustainability in the Air.’The aviation industry finds itself at a crossroads, grappling with the environmental consequences of its operations. While today aviation’s global share of greenhouse gases is around 3%, that could grow to 22% by 2050 if left unchecked. But the authors of Sustainability in the Air argue that this is not a doomsday scenario; it’s a call to action. In their book, Dirk and Shashank delve into the industry’s challenges while painting a picture of hope through a comprehensive roadmap for sustainable aviation. The book however, isn't just a roadmap; it tells the stories of people in the aviation industry and within climate tech, striving for aviation’s net zero future.Featuring industry leaders like Etihad, SkyTeam, JetBlue, and innovators like AIR COMPANY, Heart Aerospace, ZeroAvia, Archer, ‘Sustainability in the Air’ shines a light on the positive changes that aviation can make while offering concrete solutions.You can learn more about the book here, or order it on Amazon.Links & More:Sustainability in the Air: Innovators Transforming Aviation for a Greener Future - SimpliFlying How JetBlue plans to get to net zero by 2040 without stifling growth - SimpliFlyingHow AIR COMPANY is transforming CO2 into clean alcohols and fuel - SimpliFlying  Why Heart Aerospace’s electric aircraft is a gamechanger - SimpliFlying Why ZeroAvia believes that hydrogen propulsion is the future - SimpliFlyingWhy eVTOLS will change the way we live, travel and spend time - SimpliFlying  

In this episode we talk to Hiske Arts, Campaigner at Fossil Free NL (Fossielvrij NL), a Dutch citizens’ movement seeking to “break the power of the fossil fuel industry”. Arts voices her concerns about the aviation industry’s contributions to the climate crisis and emphasises her scepticism about the aviation industry’s genuine commitment to addressing climate concerns. The conversation delves into the concept of a “carbon budget” and the aviation industry’s emissions, with Hiske arguing that the sector faces unique challenges to become sustainable. We also learn about the growth trajectory of the aviation sector, with much of the debate centring on the responsibility of developed nations versus developing nations in tackling emissions. Arts maintains that developed nations, due to their historical contributions to emissions, should take the lead in addressing climate change. This view is reflected in her stance on the aviation industry’s growth aspirations; Arts believes that true sustainability cannot coexist with the current emphasis on continual growth. Please note: When talking about SBTi, Hiske mistakenly mentions that they delay emissions reductions until after 2030. What she meant to say was that SBTi targets are delaying steep emission reductions until after 2030.If you LOVED this episode, you’ll also love the conversation we had with the International Council on Clean Transportation’s (ICCT) Program Director, Dan Rutherford, who dives deep into the future of sustainable aviation and the trajectory airlines and governments need to follow to get to net-zero emissions.. 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 podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.Links & More:The Fossil Free Movement - Fossielvrij NLFossielVrij NL v. KLM - Climate Change LitigationDutch government presses ahead with Schiphol flight cap as airlines protest - Reuters    Would a frequent flying tax be progressive? - International Council on Clean Transportation Dan Rutherford on net-zero roadmaps and transitioning to sustainable technologies - SimpliFlying

In this episode we talk to Nathan Millecam, President & CEO of Electric Power Systems (EP Systems) about designing the perfect battery to power electric aircraft.Millecam’s company is a pioneer in aircraft battery technology. His journey began with a role at Honeywell Aerospace, where he worked on the Boeing 787 Dreamliner’s power system. This introduced him to the potential of lithium-ion batteries in aviation. He then started EP Systems in 2016 to explore the potential application of lithium-ion batteries in aircraft, given their improving power density and followed this up with learnings from collaborating with NASA on their X-57 experimental electric aircraft project. We’ll also learn about the company’s partnerships with Ampaire and REGENT and the intricacies and practicalities of designing and customising batteries for hybrid-electric and all-electric planes. Millecam points out the significant savings associated with running battery-powered aircraft as compared to sticking with traditional jet combustion engines.While discussing JetBlue Ventures’ investment in the company, he also stresses the importance of economic viability in sustainable aviation. He elaborates on battery technology advancements, emphasising quick recharging, and real-world applications and reveals when the public can expect to actually experience all-electric planes.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.Links & More:EPiC propulsion battery - EP Systems Ampaire chooses EP Systems to supply battery packs for hybrid-electric Eco Caravan - Avionics International Performance analysis of regional electric aircraft - ICCTElectric airplane industry & trends - Toptal EP Systems enters strategic partnership with REGENT - Avionics International Electric Power Systems awarded the Energy Storage System for the NASA X-57 Maxwell all-electric aircraft - EP Systems South America’s ‘lithium fields’ reveal the dark side of our electric future - Euronews Amy Burr on how JetBlue Ventures is investing in the future of sustainable aviation - SimpliFlying 

In this episode we talk to Daniel Wiegand, Co-founder & Chief Engineer for Innovation and Future Programmes at Lilium. He shares Lilium’s vision to revolutionise regional air mobility by building the world’s first electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) jet.While most eVTOLs are seen as advanced versions of helicopters, Lilium Jet’s unique design allows for passengers to be transported using vertical takeoff and landing, and then proceed with what they’re terming “jet propulsion” for travel. The company expects its first eVTOL jet to enter commercial service by the end of 2025.Speaking about the future, Wiegand mentions that commercial operations are likely to start post certification in 2025, targeting the premium segment. He concludes by discussing their collaboration strategy, combining aerospace precision with automotive scalability, and how their carefully nurtured partnerships support a joint vision of sustainable aviation.Please note: This interview was recorded in April 2023. By the time of the episode release,  Lilium had completed its fourth and final Design Organization Approval by EASA, and had raised additional funding bringing the total raised this year to $292 million. If you LOVED this episode, you’ll also love the conversations we had with Adam Goldstein, CEO and Founder at Archer Aviation; Bonny Simi, Joby Aviation’s Head of Air Operations and People; and André Stein, Chief Strategy Officer at Eve Air Mobility.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.For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.Links & More:The extraordinary batteries Lilium will use for its odd eVTOL approach - New AtlasHoneywell and DENSO are developing a motor for Lilium’s eVTOL aircraft - Avionics InternationalLilium partners with Ferrovial to build network of 10+ vertiports in Florida - Vertical Mag Why eVTOLS will change the way we live, travel and spend time - SimpliFlying Joby wants to alleviate the pain and frustration of getting from home to your airline seat - SimpliFlying  Lilium completes final audit in major step towards achieving EASA Design Organization Approval - Lilium 

In this episode we talk to Andrea Carroll, Group Head of Sustainability at daa, about how the global airport group is taking a holistic approach to sustainability and fostering a climate positive culture that promotes sustainability as a shared responsibility.daa group are the commercial semi-state operators of Dublin and Cork airports; airport retail operators (ARI) and management consulting (daai). As daa has grown to have a presence in about 15 countries, it has shed its previous name: “Dublin Airport Authority”. Its current operations extend beyond Ireland’s two largest airports – Dublin and Cork – to the Middle East, Canada, APAC, and Europe. Their business model is diverse, and they even have investments in airports in Cyprus and Düsseldorf.We will learn about the daa's global footprint and its commitment to sustainability, including decarbonisation efforts like integrating solar farms, circularity initiatives to reduce waste, and measures to enhance local environments. The conversation underscores the significance of multi-stakeholder collaboration, with daa actively coordinating with airlines, local communities, and even policymakers.If you LOVED this episode, you’ll also love the conversation we had with Paul Griffiths, CEO at Dubai International Airport about the sustainability initiatives at one of the largest airports in the world. 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 podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.Links & More:Creating a climate positive culture for the daa – International Airport Review HVO propelling sustainability at Dublin Airport – Certa Sustainability Reports – daa ESG – daa International Dublin Airport Environmental Working Group – Dublin Airport➡️ How do you decarbonise a major airport? – SimpliFlying 

In this episode, we talk to Haldane Dodd, Executive Director at Air Transport Action Group (ATAG), about how the non-profit is assisting the aviation industry in its net-zero by 2050 journey. Since 1990, the Geneva-based ATAG has brought the industry together to address the most pressing issues of the day. Their membership currently comprises over 40 organisations, including airframe and engine manufacturers, airlines, airports, and sustainable fuel companies. They offer platforms for collaboration, provide valuable data, and develop educational resources, promoting the industry’s sustainability efforts.  The conversation centres around ATAG’s role, CORSIA and its critics, achieving net-zero by 2050, the commercial viability of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), the role of hydrogen, and confronting greenwashing. Dodd underscores the industry’s shift in focus from infrastructure to climate change, drawing parallels between collective safety initiatives and sustainability. We also learn about Waypoint 2050, a comprehensive guide detailing three pathways for the industry’s carbon-neutral future. Dodd emphasises SAF as an immediate solution and the need for large-scale investment, while also acknowledging the potential of emerging technologies like hydrogen and electric planes. If you LOVED this episode, you’ll also love the conversation we had with ACI World’s Director General Luis Felipe de Oliveira who shares how the organisation is supporting airports in their net-zero journey. Check it out here.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.Links & More:Waypoint 2050 - ATAG IATA - Incentives Needed to Increase SAF Production Out Front on Airline Safety: Two Decades of Continuous Evolution - FAA Future of Aviation - ICAO CORSIA Fact sheet - IATACorsia: worst option for the climate - Transport and Environment The airport of the future will be carbon positive, not just carbon neutral - SimpliFlying 

In this episode, we talk to André Stein, Chief Strategy Officer at Eve Air Mobility, a subsidiary of the Brazilian aircraft manufacturer Embraer. Stein talks about the transformative potential of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft in urban mobility. He explains how Eve is emphasising the passenger experience, striving to cater to a wide demographic, including the elderly, visually impaired, wheelchair users, and addressing concerns like motion sickness. We’ll also learn about how Eve leverages the capabilities of its parent company, Embraer, benefitting from its established aviation experience and infrastructure. Furthermore, Stein stresses Eve’s dedication to sustainability – extending from aircraft design to operations, engaging with energy providers for green solutions and collaborating with global entities to achieve broader sustainability targets.If you LOVED this episode, you’ll also love the conversations we had with two other stalwarts in the eVTOL space – Adam Goldstein, CEO and Founder at Archer Aviation and Bonny Simi, Head of Air Operations and People and Joby Aviation. Learn more about their visions for the future of urban air mobility here and 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.Links & More:eVTOL - Eve Embraer-XUnited Airlines invests $15M in Eve, signs purchase sgreement for pp to 400 eVTOLs - Avionics International  Eve is collaborating with MIT to make data-driven decisions to build the urban air mobility market - Eve Air MobilityBLADE and Eve announce strategic partnership to expand Urban Air Mobility ecosystem in India - Eve Air Mobility Why eVTOLS will change the way we live, travel and spend time - SimpliFlying Joby wants to alleviate the pain and frustration of getting from home to your airline seat - SimpliFlying 

In this episode, we talk to Amy Ruddock, VP Europe and Middle East at Carbon Engineering. Based in British Columbia, Canada, Carbon Engineering aims to combat climate change by globally implementing Direct Air Capture (DAC) technology at a megaton-scale. Unlike traditional methods, DAC directly extracts CO2, the key greenhouse gas behind climate change, from the atmosphere, addressing both current unavoidable emissions and past CO2 emissions still present in the atmosphere.The discussion centers on carbon emissions, capture, and aviation’s role in climate change. Ruddock calls for carbon balance, and discusses the Carbon Engineering and Occidental Petroleum partnership, emphasising strategic alliances and Occidental’s commitment to carbon management. We also learn about carbon capture credits, synthetic aviation fuels, cost reduction, direct air capture hubs, Ruddock’s career and passion for decarbonising aviation, Heathrow expansion, Virgin Atlantic's 100% SAF flight, and Carbon Engineering's global expansion plans.If you LOVED this episode, you’ll also love the conversation we had with Gregory Constantine, Co-Founder and CEO of Air Company whose proprietary AIRMADE™ technology that replicates photosynthesis, is converting carbon dioxide into pure alcohols. Initially introducing a carbon-negative vodka, Air Vodka, the company also produces sanitiser and perfume. Crucially, they’ve developed a one-step, 100% drop-in sustainable aviation fuel directly from CO2. Check it out here.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.Links & More:Direct Air Capture Technology - Carbon Engineering 1PointFive announces agreement with Airbus for the purchase of 400,000 tonnes of carbon removal credits - Decarbonisation TechnologyHow All Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Feedstocks and Production Technologies Can Play a Role in Decarbonizing Aviation - Aviation ProsOccidental, 1PointFive to Begin Construction of World's Largest Direct Air Capture Plant in the Texas Permian Basin - OxyVisualizing the scale of the carbon removal problem - The Verge Virgin Atlantic’s 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel gambit - SimpliFlying ➡️ The company transforming CO2 into clean alcohols and fuel - SimpliFlying 

In the special 50th episode, SimpliFlying CEO and host of the podcast, Shashank Nigam, reflects on the podcast's evolution from its inception on Earth Day 2022. He is joined by the SimpliFlying team members as they record the episode on a boat in London during their annual retreat. Shashank begins by highlighting the critical contributions of each member of the SimpliFlying team in the areas of research, writing, production management, design, marketing and distribution. Tracing the podcast's journey, Shashank notes the transition from his initial short YouTube video content to in-depth podcasts, driven by his – and the company’s – increasing interest and curiosity in sustainable aviation. Apart from discussing unique features like innovative visual branding and insightful articles that replace traditional transcripts, the team also recalls some of their favourite and most insightful episodes. Red Sea Global’s episode on its regenerative tourism site receives a special mention as it aims to be the largest tourism destination in the world that is powered 100% by renewable energy 24 hours a day. Other noteworthy episodes include interviews with AIR COMPANY, which transforms carbon dioxide into sustainable aviation fuel, and Archer, an electric air taxi firm. The episode on SATAVIA’s contrail reduction technology is mentioned, with Shashank noting its relevance from an earlier conversation with Etihad Airways.Overall, the team remains optimistic about sustainable aviation’s future, foreseeing innovations in hydrogen fuel and other green technologies. Concluding with light-hearted bloopers and future aspirations, the episode emphasises the podcast’s commitment to advancing discussions on sustainable aviation.A special shout-out to our sponsors, both past and present, who have championed our podcast since day 1 – CarbonClick, Cirium, and our current sponsor, Travelport. 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.Links & More:How Red Sea Global’s ambitious eco-tourism model could save the planetThe company transforming CO2 into clean alcohols and fuelWhy eVTOLS will change the way we live, travel and spend time Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World - AmazonThe Climate Book by Greta Thunberg - Penguin Random House 

In this episode, we talk to Tom Kershaw, Chief Product & Technology Officer at Travelport, about how technology coupled with a transparent, collaborative approach can lead to a sustainable future. Travelport is a travel technology company with transparency at its core. It provides “a single, independent marketplace for buyers and sellers of travel” that helps travellers make informed travel decisions while enabling travel businesses such as airlines and hotels to personalise their content and offers. Kershaw asserts that sustainability is a technical problem that requires integration and collaboration across various departments, including revenue, marketing, and technology. He emphasises that sustainability should be a part of the culture in every organisation, not a segregated department.You’ll also learn about the importance of having standard and transparent calculations for carbon emissions, rather than aiming for absolute accuracy. Kershaw stresses the need for consumers to understand the relative impact of their choices and make informed decisions. Most importantly, the episode explains why the intersection of government policy, corporate responsibility, and technological innovation is crucial for the path ahead.If you LOVED this episode, you’ll also love the conversation we had with Red Sea Global’s CEO John Pagano who shares how the developer is rethinking eco-tourism that will allow you to travel not just net-zero, but true climate positive. Check it out here.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.Links & More:About TravelportTravelport+ is the platform for modern agency retailing - TravelportTravelport Joins Travalyst Coalition and Escalates Focus on Sustainability in Travel Retailing - TravelportIATA CO2 Connect Calculator European Green Deal: new law agreed to cut aviation emissions by promoting sustainable aviation fuels - European CommissionUS-based United Airlines expects Inflation Reduction Act to spur more SAF output - S&P➡️ How Red Sea Global’s ambitious eco-tourism model could save the planet - SimpliFlying