Air traffic has fallen into disrepute in the eco debate. Image correction is announced. And saving emissions. How should that work? To find answers, the “Krone” took place in a “green” AUA Airbus.
It can go that fast. Until a few years ago air travel was still considered ‘sexy’, but now it has been labeled an environmental sin. The fact is: it takes a lot of energy to move such a heavy monster, including cargo and passengers, from A to B.
According to various studies, aviation is responsible for about 3 percent of global CO₂ emissions. Everyone has to decide for themselves whether this is a lot or a little.
The rethinking has begun
But it is also a fact that the airlines have started to think differently. Not only because of the image, but also because of the costs. For example, the Lufthansa Group, which also includes Austrian Airlines, has set itself the ambitious goal of reducing emissions by half by 2030.
On an AUA flight from Amsterdam to Vienna – a distance of just over 1000 kilometres, with a tailwind and in a brand new Airbus A320neo – the “Krone” investigated how this could be done. Flight Captain is Oliver Cantele.
Above the clouds in the “Schnitzelfett-Jet”
The experienced pilot is in charge of the Lufthansa Group project. “Sustainability concerns us all. At Austrian Airlines, we are therefore pursuing an ambitious goal. We pilots take our responsibility, because every day and every kilo counts,” explains Cantele.
Three pillars should pave the way for greener aviation. Converting the fleet to economical aircraft such as the Neo or Boeing’s Dreamliner and using biofuel in the tank. Processed used fats and frying oils are already added. In a figurative sense, the bird also flies with schnitzel fat. The music of the future also plays the song of hydrogen.
20 liters of fuel per passenger
Copilot Mario Rossmann calculated a fuel consumption of almost 20 liters per passenger for the flight to Vienna. With a combustion car, consumption would be significantly higher. After the computer has calculated an efficient flight path, the Airbus lands punctually in Schwechat.
Fuel is now also saved: by reducing the position of the landing flaps during landing and switching off one engine when taxiing to the parking position. Sustainable flying – factor three towards a greener flying era.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
