Airlines Leading the Way in Sustainability

Planning your dream trip, but want to keep your carbon footprint in check? We've got you. More than ever, us travellers are considering the impacts of our travel plans on the planet, prompting us to look for sustainable options to keep on travelling.

If you're looking for ways to become a sustainable star, or are just intrigued with how even the smallest travel changes can make a big difference, then get comfy and delve into this blog all about airlines leading the way in sustainable travel!

💡Did you know: Over 50 airlines are already using or trialling Sustainable Aviation Fuel.

Why Greener Choices Matter 💚

Okay, let's be real: flying contributes to carbon emissions. But it's also how we connect with the world, visit loved ones, and experience new cultures. It may not be something that we ordinarily would consider, but it's definitely a topic of conversation that's on the rise. The act of aviation has multiple impacts on our planet, whether that be through greenhouse gas emissions, nitrogen oxides released into the upper atmosphere, noise pollution or effects on the local air quality.

So what can you do as a conscious traveller to help?

• Opt for direct flights if possible, and try to avoid longer, multi-stop flights
• Consider airlines that have newer, more environmentally-friendly aircraft
• Pack lighter to avoid a heavier plane that would require more fuel to be emitted
• Avoid single-use plastics whilst you're travelling
• Offset the carbon emissions from your flight
• Support sustainable airlines

It's not just up to you as a traveller to make these changes, airline's are stepping up too! Many of the most popular names in the industry are implementing new practices and procedures to combat their sustainability impact and adhere to set guidelines. In particular, British Airways have claimed to have net zero carbon emissions by 2050, and by 2030 are planning to be fuelling their aircraft with 10% SAF (Sustainable Aviation Fuels).

Key Airline Initiatives 📝

Sustainable Fuel 101

Sustainable airline fuel, the greener fuel alternative, is made up of non-petroleum feedstocks that significantly reduce the carbon emissions that come from aviation. Airports throughout the world have implemented SAF, but most notably Europe and the United States are leading with this initiative. In line with the UK Government's SAF Mandate, airlines around the world will be introducing SAF into their aircraft sooner than you might think, giving you plenty of options when deciding which sustainable airline you would like to fly with.

Smarter Planes, Smaller Footprint

You ever get on a flight and think the plane looks a little outdated? Well, it's true! There are plenty of older models of aircraft out there that should really look at retiring. This isn't just for your comfort however, it's also important for the environment. New planes are way more fuel-efficient than the old ones. This means less fuel burned, less emissions. It's a win-win. Keep on reading to find out what airlines are embracing a newer fleet and leading the way in sustainability.

Carbon Offsetting

Ever heard of carbon offsetting your flight? Yes, this is a thing! Many businesses offer the option to carbon offset your travels by calculating the amount of Co2 you're responsible for and putting it towards a fund that reduces emissions by the same amount. It's important that if you decide to participate in a carbon offsetting programme, you choose one that has been credited with an internationally recognised certificate, most notably is the Verified Carbon Standard (VCS).

Beyond the Flight

Sustainable air travel doesn't stop with the aircraft, there are many more initiatives that are being implemented, beyond sustainable fuel. Popular single-use plastic items like straws, cups and cutlery have started to be phased out, replaced with a biodegradable alternative. So don't worry, you can still enjoy your onboard beverage, just in a eco-friendly way.

Airlines Leading the Way in Sustainability ✈️

Ready to book a greener flight? The following airlines are making waves with their commitment to sustainability:

KLM:

Looking for an airline that supports SAF? KLM are often regarded as one of the most innovative and sustainable airlines due to their commitment to integrating SAF across the entirety of their fleet. From 2023, every flight taking off from their Amsterdam Schiphol hub has at least 1% SAF in the tank, which is double what they used in 2022. That's some serious progress, and it means they're heading straight towards their goal of 10% SAF by 2030. Looking to experience a euro summer? Check out KLM for flights to Europe!

Emirates:

When it comes to doing their part for the planet, Emirates is really going the extra mile. The popular UAE flag carrier is not just focused on having a shiny, new, eco-efficient fleet (which means noise reduced flights and lower emissions, by the way). They also look for innovative ways to minimise their environmental impact through initiatives such as fuel-saving tricks for take-off and landing, a water-saving treatment for their aircraft, and onboard blankets that are made from 100% recycled plastic bottles. That's what we call commitment! For flights to Dubai, Bangkok, Mumbai and many others, choose Emirates for your sustainable flight.

easyJet:

Low-cost leader, easyJet, has been flying lighter thanks to their super-sleek Recaro seats! Since 2013, all their new planes have been kitted out with lightweight loungers, minimising seat weight by a whopping 26%. For the environment, that means less fuel burned and a smaller carbon footprint when you're on your European getaway! Choose easyJet for sustainable flights to Majorca, Milan, Turkey or other top destinations.

Lufthansa:

Lufthansa has taken inspiration for its planes from the ocean's ultimate speedsters – sharks! The German airline has coated their planes with a revolutionary 'AeroSHARK' film that mimics sharkskin as a unique way to optimise airflow whilst drastically reducing fuel consumption. What's more, it works! The results showed that in 2021, it reduced CO2 emissions by 26,800 tonnes, and now, as standard, all Lufthansa Boeing 777 aircrafts are fitted with the same material. If you're looking for a sustainable airline to get you to your summer destination, Lufthansa has your back!

How to Choose Greener Flights ♻️

Direct flights are your friend

Want to get to your destination faster and greener? Choose a direct flight! Not only do you save precious travel time by skipping those layovers, but you're also doing the planet a favour. Direct flights mean fewer takeoffs and landings, which are the most fuel-guzzling parts of a flight. So, it's a win-win: more time for you, less emissions for the environment!

Newer aircraft, fewer emissions

As we previously mentioned, the newer the aircraft, the lower the emissions. Well, here's a cool trick for you to select the shiny new aircraft during your flight search. When you're searching for flights on our site, you can actually filter by aircraft model! Opting for a newer aircraft isn't just about a more comfortable ride (although that's a bonus!). These modern liveries are designed to be far more eco-efficient, emitting less carbon and getting you to your destination in a greener way. So, next time you book flights with Alternative Airlines, give that filter a try and help us all fly a little lighter!

Pack light, fly right

Looking to be a super efficient traveller? Leave the heavy suitcase behind! The lighter the plane, the less fuel it burns, and that means fewer emissions being released into our planet. So, next time you're packing for your trip, try to channel your inner minimalist and see how much you can leave behind.

Sustainable destinations

Your journey doesn't end when you land! Why not opt for a sustainable destination to keep being green beyond the airport. With 600+ global airlines available on our site, you've got a world of greener options at your fingertips to get you there! If you're in need of some inspo, Helsinki, Gothenburg and Bhutan are among the leading sustainability destination pros, however, if they don't quite peak your interest, check out our blog for the Top 10 Ecotourism Destinations.

Fly Now Pay Later with Sustainable Airlines

Alternative Airlines offers many unique and flexible payment options that make booking flights with sustainable airlines even more accessible and convenient for every kind of traveller. Wondering why you should use Buy Now Pay Later or cryptocurrency when booking flights with sustainable airlines? Here's why!

BNPL options like Afterpay, Klarna, Affirm, and others allow you to divide the cost of your flight into manageable instalments. This is the perfect option for you if you're looking to fly last-minute or experience a multi-city sustainable getaway, all without disrupting your finances.

If you're looking for a way to pay for your flights with cryptocurrency, you've come to the right place! Enjoy secure, anonymous transactions when paying with cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, or Litecoin. It's a great choice for international travellers and there's no need for currency conversion. Cryptocurrency also reduces the need for traditional banking infrastructure and paper-based processes, helping to lower environmental impact. Plus, using energy-efficient blockchains supports the shift toward greener, more sustainable digital finance.

Flying greener is an easier task than you may first have thought. By making conscious choices, you can explore the world and look after it at the same time. So, go ahead and book that flight – and don't be scared to feel good about it!

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