Afleveringen
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In this episode, we talk to Grace Vihenda, Senior Manager, Innovation and Sustainability at Kenya Airways, who shares the airline’s efforts to promote sustainable aviation in Africa, a continent with abundant resources for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production but limited infrastructure and investment.
In 2023, Kenya Airways became the first African airline to use SAF for an intercontinental long-haul flight. The flight was conducted as a part of SkyTeam’s Sustainable Flight Challenge, despite the challenges posed by the lack of a SAF policy framework in the country and the need to purchase the fuel from overseas at a significantly higher cost. The flight has been instrumental in helping chart the course for supportive policy action and the need to set up local SAF production. Vihenda discusses Kenya Airways’ plans to scale up local production, with testing and certification planned for 2024, and eventual commercialisation for broader use.
Vihenda also elaborates on Kenya Airways’ innovative sustainability initiatives, such as partnering with a startup to produce cleaner diesel from waste plastic, implementing 100% recycling of food waste during in-flight meal preparation, and developing upcycled products from aircraft parts. She also emphasises the importance of collaboration and knowledge-sharing among airlines to advance sustainability goals.
As a side note, AviaDev Africa Conference, a crucial platform for improving air travel connections across Africa, is taking place from June 19-21, 2024 in Windhoek, Namibia. Learn more about AviaDev here.
If you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversation we had with SkyTeam Alliance’s CEO Patrick Roux who outlines the alliance’s role in enabling airlines’ net zero journey. 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 [email protected]. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.
Links & More:
Sustainability - Kenya Airways
Kenya Airways operates first flight from Africa using Eni’s aviation biofuel - ESG News
Kenya Airways wins top prize in two categories in the ‘Sustainable Flight Challenge’ - Airspace Africa
Why SkyTeam believes the world needs “conscious travel” - SimpliFlying -
In this episode, we talk to Jimmy Samartzis, CEO of LanzaJet, who shares the company’s journey in developing the world’s first proven alcohol-to-jet (ATJ) technology that converts ethanol into sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and renewable diesel.
Samartzis discusses LanzaJet’s ambitious target of producing 1 billion gallons of SAF by 2030. Elaborating on LanzaJet’s highly efficient and capital-light ATJ technology, he explains how it can produce up to 90% of fuels as SAF and the remaining 10% as renewable diesel. The process is also adaptable to various feedstocks, including waste materials, allowing LanzaJet to leverage local, sustainable inputs, and cater to the needs and resources of different countries.
Samartzis emphasises the importance of collaborations with airline investors and partners like British Airways and Southwest Airlines in driving the adoption of SAF. He also discusses the environmental benefits of LanzaJet’s technology and SAF, which include the elimination of sulphur, reduction in particulate matter, and potentially lower contrail formation.
If you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversation we had with World Energy’s President & CEO Gene Gebolys who delves into the intricacies and future of SAF. 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 [email protected]. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.
Links & More:
Sustainable Fuels - LanzaJet
Cleaner skies ahead? A glimmer of hope for airline industry’s clean fuel challenge - The Economic Times
LanzaJet unveils world’s first ethanol-to-sustainable jet fuel plant in Georgia - Bloomberg
British Airways, Nova Pangaea, LanzaJet project wins UK funding - Biomass Magazine
How World Energy is shaping the future of sustainable aviation fuel - SimpliFlying
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Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
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In our first-ever bilingual episode, we talk to Preeti Jain, Head of Net Zero Transition Program at the International Air Transport Association (IATA). Jain provides an in-depth look at the challenges and opportunities in scaling up sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) to help aviation achieve its goal of net zero emissions by 2050.
The interview is presented in two parts: English followed by Hindi.
Jain discusses the current SAF landscape, highlighting the stark mismatch between demand and supply. Emphasising the need for greater SAF production, she estimates that a 1000-fold increase is required by 2050, amounting to roughly 300 new SAF plants each year. This rapid scale-up, however, is hindered by several challenges: inconsistent policy support, high capital costs and under-developed feedstock supply chains.
IATA’s strategy for overcoming these challenges involves a multi-pronged approach focusing on feedstocks, technology development, policy support, and collaboration across stakeholders. Jain emphasises the need for policies that encourage SAF production and adoption, and commends the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act and California’s Low Carbon Fuel Standard as good examples. She sees potential in leveraging existing refinery infrastructure for SAF production, and expects SAF’s cost to decline over time as more facilities are deployed and technologies mature.
Jain also discusses the potential for SAF to deliver benefits beyond emissions reductions, such as improved energy security and rural economic development, particularly in emerging economies with large agricultural sectors. She also emphasises the critical role of collaboration across the aviation industry, governments, and civil society to build a thriving SAF ecosystem.
If you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversation we had with IATA’s SVP Sustainability & Chief Economist Marie Owens Thomsen. 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 [email protected]. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.
Links & More:
Our Commitment to Fly Net Zero by 2050 - IATA
SAF Offtake Agreements - ICAO
SAF Deployment - IATA
Net Zero Roadmaps - IATA
Domestic air passenger traffic likely touched 15.4 crore in 2023-24: Report - The Economic Times
How IATA envisions merging economics and sustainability in aviation - SimpliFlying
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In this episode, we welcome back Dan Rutherford, Senior Director of Research at the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT), for his second appearance on the show. Rutherford shares his insights on the latest developments, partnerships, and challenges in reducing aviation emissions and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
Rutherford discusses ICCT's expanded collaborations with industry partners, governments, and non-governmental organisations to apply their research directly to various projects and initiatives aimed at reducing aviation emissions. He highlights their work with Google on the Travel Impact Model (TIM), which aims to provide consumers with accurate, precise, and transparent emissions estimates when booking flights.
The conversation delves into the challenges of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, with Rutherford providing sobering projections and emphasises the critical role of sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs) in bridging the gap, given the long lifespan of aircraft and the slow development of alternative technologies like hydrogen.
The discussion also touches on the concept of a frequent flyer levy as a potential progressive taxation method to fund the transition to net-zero emissions. Rutherford emphasises the importance of consumer awareness and action in driving change within the aviation industry. The conversation concludes with Rutherford highlighting the role of multi-stakeholder initiatives and partnerships between organisations like ICCT and airlines, manufacturers, and other industry players in driving the transition to a cleaner, more sustainable future for aviation.
If you LOVED this episode you’ll enjoy revisiting one of our earliest episodes – also with Dan – who sets the stage for understanding 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 [email protected]. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.
Links & More:
About - International Council on Clean Transportation
Vision 2050: A strategy to decarbonize the global transport sector by mid-century - ICCT
The ICCT and Google establish new partnership on lower carbon travel search - ICCT
Travel Impact Model API - Google for Developers
Aviation climate finance using a global frequent flying levy - ICCT
Dan Rutherford on net-zero roadmaps and transitioning to sustainable technologies - SimpliFlying
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In this episode, we talk to Diana Birkett Rakow, Senior Vice President of Public Affairs & Sustainability at Alaska Airlines, who shares the airline’s ambitious goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2040.
To reach the 2040 goal, Alaska Airlines has developed a comprehensive five-part path. The plan includes focusing on operational efficiency, fleet modernisation, sustainable aviation fuels (SAF), new propulsion technologies, and the use of carbon credits as a last resort.
Rakow discusses the importance of employee and customer engagement in advancing the airline’s sustainability goals. She shares the airline’s unique bonus program that ties 10% of every employee’s annual bonus to achieving carbon intensity targets. Rakow also discusses the airline’s efforts to engage customers in sustainability initiatives by enabling the purchase of nature-based offsets and SAF credits, and offering loyalty rewards.
Rakow emphasises the significance of collaborations with companies like Microsoft and Twelve in developing and utilising SAF. She also delves into the airline’s investments in future technologies, such as their partnership with ZeroAvia to develop hydrogen-electric powertrains for regional aircraft, and the role of the airline’s venture investment arm, Alaska Star Ventures, in identifying and supporting innovations that accelerate the path to net zero emissions.
Please note: Alaska Airlines established its headquarters in Seattle in the early 1960s. The decade was misstated in the episode.
If you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversation we had with Delta Air Lines’ Chief Sustainability Officer Amelia DeLuca, who shares the airline’s collaborative vision for sustainability. 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 [email protected]. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.
Links & More:
ESG Environmental Social Governance - Alaska Airlines
Flying with purpose: Alaska sets new climate goals, including net-zero carbon emissions by 2040 - Alaska Airlines
Alaska Airlines, Twelve & Microsoft collaborate to use Sustainable Aviation Fuel produced from captured CO2 - ESG Today
Alaska Airlines, ZeroAvia to develop world’s largest zero-emission aircraft - Flight Global
Delta’s sustainability push is powered by a surprising customer insight
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In this episode, we talk to Daniel Rosen Jacobson, co-founder, co-CEO and Chief Business Officer of Elysian Aircraft, a startup that is developing a clean-sheet 90-seater battery electric aircraft.
Jacobson discusses Elysian’s unique approach to electric aviation, which focuses on a larger aircraft capable of carrying passengers over distances of about 800 km – longer than most current electric aircraft concepts. By targeting the busy short-haul market with a plane that can operate at costs competitive with conventional jets, Elysian aims to make a significant impact on the sustainability of regional air travel.
Jacobson also delves into the technical aspects of Elysian’s E9x aircraft design, which features a large wing with integrated batteries, and folding wingtips for airport compatibility. He also touches upon the challenges of certifying such a novel aircraft and the importance of collaborating with regulators and industry partners.
If you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversation we had with Heart Aerospace’s CEO Anders Forslund, who discusses how regional electric air travel can transform the industry while addressing the key sustainability challenges. 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 [email protected]. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.
Links & More:
Elysian Aircraft
Start-up Elysian reveals first 90 passenger battery-electric aircraft - Airport Technology
Elysian unveils advisory board drawn from across the ‘aviation ecosystem’ - Flight Global
Electric aircraft may have more potential than we thought - Bloomberg
Why Heart Aerospace’s electric aircraft is a gamechanger - SimpliFlying
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In this episode, we talk to three key members of Harbour Air, North America’s largest seaplane airline. Harbour Air’s CEO Bert Van Der Stege, Engineering and Quality Manager Erika Holtz, and Head of Digital and Customer Experience Suzanne Bremski discuss the airline’s vision for the future of electric aviation.
Harbour Air has a strong track record of prioritising sustainability, being the first airline to introduce carbon offsetting in 2007. The airline was also the first to operate an electric plane in 2019 with its e-plane initiative, and has committed to build the world’s first all-electric commercial fleet. Harbour Air’s unique operating conditions, including short flight times and low altitudes, make it well-suited for the transition to an all-electric airline.
The conversation also delves into Harbour Air’s shift from carbon offsetting to insetting, which involves taking actions or making investments within the airline’s operations, production or value chain for long-term, sustainable mitigation or avoidance of emissions. The interviewees also discuss the positive customer response to Harbour Air’s electric aviation initiatives, the current state of battery technology, and the importance of collaborations and partnerships in advancing sustainable aviation.
If you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversation we had with Harbour Air’s former CEO, Greg McDougall, who discusses the airline’s strong resolve to be an early adopter of disruptive technologies. 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 [email protected]. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.
Links & More:
Harbour Air
Moving past carbon neutral - Harbour Air
Carbon insetting vs offsetting - World Economic Forum
Harbour Air Delays “eBeaver” Service Entry - Airways
How Harbour Air is revolutionising aviation with their electric aircraft technology - SimpliFlying
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In this episode, we talk to Finlay Asher, co-founder of Safe Landing, a global community of aviation workers who are working within the sector to reduce the climate impact of aviation.
Asher emphasises the need for a holistic approach to sustainable aviation, which goes beyond efficiency improvements and includes demand reduction measures. He touches upon the challenges of balancing growth and sustainability in the aviation industry, highlighting the need for government intervention and the enforcement of carbon budgets to ensure a managed transition.
The potential and limitations of Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAFs) are also discussed, with Asher calling for evidence-based analysis and prioritisation of decarbonisation efforts. He stresses the importance of equity and fairness in aviation decarbonisation, advocating for a progressive allocation of carbon-constrained growth and the need for developed nations to lead the way in emissions reductions.
If you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversation we had with Hiske Arts, Campaigner at Fossielvrij NL, who discusses the climate activists’ scepticism about the aviation industry’s commitment to addressing climate concerns. 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 [email protected]. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.
Links & More:
https://safe-landing.org/
https://green.simpliflying.com/p/dan-rutherford-icct
https://safe-landing.org/saf-position/
https://green.simpliflying.com/p/hiske-arts-campaigner-fossil-free-nl
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In this episode, we speak with SimpliFlying’s CEO Shashank Nigam, COO Shubhodeep Pal and Head of Sustainability, Dirk Singer about the launch of SimpliFlying’s first annual Sustainable Aviation Outlook Report.
As the world reels from the catastrophic consequences of climate change, the question of what the aviation industry can do about sustainability is rife with divided opinions. Is net zero by 2050 realistic? Is it equitable for all? Do we have the money to make it happen? Will customers support it? Aviation’s pathways to net zero are also hotly contested.
As the industry navigates its complex transition towards a sustainable future, the Sustainable Aviation Outlook Report aims to offer hope, reassurance, answers and some helpful suggestions along the way.
Based on a survey of 20 leading carriers from around the world, including major players such as Air France-KLM, British Airways, Lufthansa Group, All Nippon Airways, and Southwest Airlines, the report seeks to assess the current state of sustainability efforts, identify best practices and challenges. Complemented with comprehensive and rich data from Cirium and Envest Global, SimpliFlying’s Sustainable Aviation Outlook Report aims to provide insights into how carriers can effectively integrate sustainability into their business strategies.
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.
Links & More:
Sustainable Aviation Outlook Report 2024 - SimpliFlying
Sustainability in the Air - The Book - SimpliFlying
From Ground to Cloud: Will The Billions Invested In Sustainable Aviation Truly Decarbonise The Industry? - SimpliFlying
Understanding Sustainable Aviation in 40 Charts (Plus, Case Studies!) - SimpliFlying
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In this episode, we talk to Eloa Guillotin, the Co-Founder & CEO at Beyond Aero. Founded with the vision of providing a sustainable alternative to traditional private jets, Beyond Aero aims to revolutionise the industry by focusing on the CS-23 certification category for a six-passenger aircraft.
Guillotin discusses Beyond Aero’s innovative approach to aircraft design, which involves a 100% electric powertrain powered by hydrogen fuel cells. This design choice allows for an extended range of up to 800 nautical miles, making it suitable for popular routes in Europe and the United States. She also highlights the company’s core focus on redesigning aircraft architecture around the hydrogen powertrain while leveraging existing subsystems and partnerships with suppliers.
Central to the conversation is the growing demand for sustainable private jet travel and the positive market response to Beyond Aero’s vision. Guillotin reveals that the company has secured over $600 million in letters of intent for their planned business aircraft from a diverse client base, including private jet operators, high-net-worth individuals, and public personalities.
Furthermore, Guillotin also addresses the challenges surrounding hydrogen availability and infrastructure, emphasising that Beyond Aero is part of a larger industry shift towards hydrogen-powered aviation. She discusses the company’s partnerships with over 50 airports worldwide, led by Aéroports de Paris (ADP), to develop hydrogen refueling facilities and implement these infrastructures.
If you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversation we had with Anders Forslund, CEO of Heart Aerospace who shares how regional electric air travel can transform the aviation industry. 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 [email protected]. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.
Links & More:
Beyond Aero
France’s Beyond Aero Flies Hydrogen-Electric Demonstrator - Aviation Week Network
Beyond Aero Takes on Private Jet Emissions with Hydrogen-Powered Vision - SimpliFlying
Why Heart Aerospace’s electric aircraft is a gamechanger - SimpliFlying
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In this episode, we talk to Mark Edwards, Head of Sustainability at London Gatwick. As one of the busiest airports in Europe, Gatwick has set an ambitious target to achieve net zero emissions by 2030, 20 years ahead of the UK’s national target.
Edwards discusses Gatwick’s multi-faceted approach to sustainability, which includes addressing Scope 1 and 2 emissions through the use of renewable electricity, transitioning away from fossil fuels through the use of hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO), and gradually converting their vehicle fleet to electric. He also touches upon the challenges of reducing Scope 3 emissions, which primarily come from airline operations and are outside the airport’s direct control.
Edwards elaborates on Gatwick’s role in supporting sustainable aviation initiatives. He highlights the airport’s efforts to increase the supply of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) in the region, engage passengers about carbon offsetting and SAF, advocate for government support, and potentially incentivise airlines to use more SAF.
In addition, Edwards also shares Gatwick’s preparations to support the future use of hydrogen and electric-powered aircraft, emphasising the importance of collaboration with airlines and manufacturers to ensure the airport is “jet zero ready.”
Please note: This interview was recorded in January 2024. Since then London Gatwick Airport has swapped diesel for HVO. Moreover, the public hearing for the Northern Runway Project began in February 2024.
If you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversation we had with Robb Etnyre, General Manager of Truckee Tahoe Airport, who shares how the airport has become the first in the world to fully transition to SAF. 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 [email protected]. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.
Links & More:
London Gatwick Airport
Sustainability - London Gatwick Airport
London Gatwick switches 300 diesel vehicles to hydrotreated vegetable oil - Passenger Terminal Today
Gatwick’s Plans For Second Runway Take Shape - Aviation Week Network
How Truckee Tahoe Airport is transitioning towards its 100% SAF goal - SimpliFlying
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In this episode, we talk to Rachel Gardner-Poole, who chairs the Zero Emission Flight (ZEF) Delivery Group within the UK’s Jet Zero Council. Established in 2020, the Jet Zero Council is a collaborative effort between the government, industry, and academia to achieve net zero emissions in UK aviation by 2050.
Gardner-Poole discusses the UK Government’s multi-departmental involvement in the Jet Zero Council, highlighting the importance of cross-departmental collaboration in achieving net zero emissions. The conversation centers on the various strategies and technologies being explored to decarbonise UK aviation. Gardner-Poole emphasises the crucial role of SAF in the UK’s decarbonisation strategy, with a target of 10% SAF by 2030. She also discusses the potential of hydrogen and electric aircraft, particularly for short-haul flights and smaller aircraft, while acknowledging the longer timeline for their widespread adoption.
Gardner-Poole touches upon the challenges associated with developing the necessary infrastructure for hydrogen and electric aircraft, as well as the importance of international cooperation in making zero-emission flight viable on a global scale. She also addresses the Jet Zero Council’s focus on non-CO2 emissions and contrails, and the ongoing research in this area.
If you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversation we had with Marie Owens Thomsen, Senior Vice President Sustainability & Chief Economist at the International Air Transport Association (IATA), on the integration of sustainability and economics within the aviation sector. 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 [email protected]. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.
Links & More:
Jet Zero Council - GOV.UK
Jet Zero Council announces two-year plan for UK aviation decarbonisation - Airport Technology
UK Jet Zero Council details plans to accelerate SAF production - Biodiesel Magazine
UK Proposes Revenue Scheme to Support Sustainable Fuel Industry - Aviation Week Network
Australia in Lock-step with UK on Net Zero - Australian Flying
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In this episode, we speak with Robb Etnyre, General Manager at Truckee Tahoe Airport (KTRK), a pioneering general aviation airport that has become the first in the world to fully transition to sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). Located near the Sierra Nevada mountains of California, Truckee Tahoe Airport serves a diverse range of private and business aviation customers.
Etnyre shares the story of KTRK’s decision to power 100% of their flights using SAF, driven by the impacts of climate change witnessed firsthand in the region, such as severe wildfires and smoke. He highlights the airport’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint, particularly its scope 3 emissions from jet fuel sales, which amount to approximately 500,000 gallons annually.
Etnyre also discusses the role of stakeholder engagement and education in the successful adoption of SAF. He also shares the customer response to Truckee Tahoe Airport’s SAF transition, noting the general support from most operators who align with the airport’s sustainability goals.
Etnyre delves into the challenges of ensuring a reliable and cost-effective SAF supply chain for small airports, while also highlighting their potential in driving significant change in the industry by sending strong market signals for low-carbon fuels.
If you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversation we had with Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, 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 [email protected]. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.
Links & More:
Truckee Tahoe Airport
Sustainable Aviation Fuel - Truckee Tahoe Airport
Truckee Tahoe Airport Goes All-in on Sustainable Aviation Fuel - Airport Improvement
Avfuel expands SAF reach with supply at Truckee Tahoe Airport District - Bioenergy International
How do you decarbonise a major airport? - SimpliFlying
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In this episode, we speak with Sebnem Erzan, Global Head of Travel Sustainability & Transport at Google. Erzan shares the tech giant’s vision for sustainable travel, which focuses on empowering users with accurate and consistent information to make environmentally conscious travel decisions.
Erzan highlights the importance of the Travel Impact Model, a transparent and non-commercial tool developed by Google to calculate carbon emissions for flights. The model, overseen by an independent advisory committee, is available to the entire industry, fostering collaboration and alignment in emissions measurement.
She also discusses Google’s ongoing efforts to enhance user experience by providing meaningful context to carbon emissions data, such as comparing emissions to the amount of CO2 absorbed by trees. She emphasises the need for consistent information across platforms to avoid confusion and drive behavioural change.
Erzan also underscores the significance of collaboration and partnerships within the industry. Google works closely with various stakeholders, including airlines, NGOs, and policymakers, to align methodologies and improve the accuracy of emissions calculations. Notably, Google’s collaboration with ICAO aims to establish global standards and enhance the accuracy of flight emissions calculations.
If you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversation we had with Nora Lovell Marchant, Vice President of Global Sustainability at Amex GBT, about the company’s net zero efforts such as a blockchain-powered Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) platform, an independently verified carbon offsetting programme and more... 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 [email protected]. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.
Links & More:
Travel Impact Model
ICAO and Google to collaborate on improving methodology for calculating flight carbon emissions - ICAO
Google hands over its tool for estimating flight emissions to an independent advisory group - The Verge
How emissions are estimated - Google Travel Help
Google Joins Amex GBT SAF Program - Business Travel News
How Amex GBT is building platforms for SAF and Carbon Offsets - SimpliFlying
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In this episode, we talk to Billy Nolen, Chief Safety Officer at Archer Aviation, a leading electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft company. Nolen recently joined Archer after a distinguished career at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), bringing with him a wealth of experience in aviation safety and regulation.
Nolen provides an in-depth look at Archer’s progress in certifying their eVTOL aircraft, Midnight, for commercial passenger service. He outlines the rigorous FAA certification process, and expresses confidence in Archer’s timeline, which expects to enter service in 2025.
Central to the conversation is Archer’s approach to ensuring the safety and reliability of their eVTOL aircraft. Nolen emphasises the multiple redundancies built into Midnight’s design, and asserts that once certified, Midnight will be as safe as any commercial airliner flying today. He also explains Midnight’s design optimisation for urban air mobility (UAM) missions and the rapid charging capabilities that enable quick turnarounds between flights.
Nolen also discusses the importance of public acceptance and the role of education in normalising eVTOL travel. He shares Archer’s vision of making urban air mobility accessible and affordable, with prices eventually reaching levels comparable to Uber X.
If you LOVED this episode you’ll also enjoy the conversation we had with Archer’s Founder & CEO Adam Goldstein, who shares how the startup aims to make air travel greener through incremental and innovative technologies. 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 [email protected]. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.
Links & More:
Archer Aviation
Electric Air Taxis Have Landed Vertically - Archer Aviation
Archer Begins Building Electric Air Taxis for FAA Certification - FLYING Magazine
Archer Aviation and NASA to study AAM battery tech - Airport Technology
Archer Aviation aims to launch all-electric air taxi service in India in 2026 - TechCrunch
Why eVTOLS will change the way we live, travel and spend time - SimpliFlying
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In this episode, we talk to Jamila Yamani, Director of Climate & Energy at Salesforce, who shares fascinating insights into the company’s commitment to sustainability, and how the company is taking a unique approach to advancing sustainable aviation as a non-airline entity.
Yamani discusses why sustainability matters to Salesforce, emphasising that it’s not just about risk mitigation but also about leveraging their platform to accelerate the global transition to net zero. She highlights Salesforce’s role in sponsoring the Sustainable Aviation Challenge, launched by UpLink in partnership with the World Economic Forum and the First Movers Coalition, which aims to identify and elevate promising sustainable aviation technologies globally.
As part of the First Movers Coalition, Salesforce has committed to buying SAF certificates equal to 5% of their air travel emissions. Yamani shares the challenges of navigating SAF certificates and off-takes as an end buyer, and how Salesforce has made initial purchases with United and JetBlue to start figuring out the complexities.
To address the risks of greenwashing, Salesforce emphasises the importance of considering the full lifecycle impacts of SAF, especially fuels from biological resources. Yamani stresses the need for a diverse portfolio of SAF solutions and the critical role of sustainable feedstock sourcing.
If you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversation we had with Andrew Chen, Principal for Aviation Decarbonisation at RMI, who discusses the RMI’s multi-faceted approach to aviation decarbonisation. 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 [email protected]. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.
Links & More:
Environmental Sustainability - Salesforce
Sustainable Aviation Challenge - UpLink
Salesforce and JetBlue build on partnership to accelerate their shared journey toward sustainable air travel - Salesforce
A guide to how Salesforce sustainability efforts support COP28 objectives - Salesforce
Why RMI’s multi-pronged approach to decarbonising aviation includes SAF & contrails
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In this episode, we talk to Andrew Chen, Principal for Aviation Decarbonisation at RMI. Founded in 1982 as Rocky Mountain Institute, RMI is an independent, non-partisan, non-profit that seeks to transform the global energy system to ensure a clean, zero-carbon future.
Chen discusses RMI's multi-faceted approach to aviation decarbonisation, which includes stimulating demand for Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) and addressing aviation's non-CO2 emissions – specifically, the environmental impacts of contrails. He also touches upon RMI's broader mission concerning the decarbonisation of heavy industry and transportation sectors.
Central to the conversation is the pivotal role of SAF in reducing aviation's carbon footprint. Chen discusses how RMI, through initiatives like the Sustainable Aviation Buyers Alliance (SABA), is working to overcome the challenges posed by the current "green premium" associated with SAF. This involves mobilising corporate demand and leveraging technologies such as blockchain for the traceability of SAF certificates, thereby enhancing transparency and accountability in SAF transactions.
Furthermore, Chen highlights the significant investments required to scale SAF production and the necessity of collaborative efforts across the aviation value chain for sustainable growth. He reflects on his experiences at Heathrow Airport, emphasising the critical role airports play in SAF adoption and the need for industry-wide collaboration.
If you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversation we had with Elena Schmidt, Executive Director of the Roundtable on Sustainable Biomaterials (RSB), about the journey of RSB in fostering sustainability, especially in the aviation and travel industries. 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 [email protected]. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.
Links & More:
Decarbonizing Aviation - RMI
SABA announces collective purchase of SAF certificates - Biofuels International Magazine
Clean Energy 101: Book and Claim - RMI
Contrail Mitigation: A Milestone Year for Advancing Industry Understanding and Experience - RMI
Flight100: Virgin Atlantic and RMI test new ways to reduce aviation’s climate impact - Virgin
How the RSB is nudging aviation towards a bio-circular economy - SimpliFlying
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In this episode, we talk to Sangita Sharma, Director of Delta Air Lines’ Sustainable Skies Lab, who shares how the lab is fostering innovation and accelerating a sustainable future for air travel.
The Sustainable Skies Lab aims to advance research, design and testing for transformative sustainable innovations, for both near-term and long-term environmental goals. The lab seeks to merge Delta’s extensive operational knowledge with cutting-edge innovations across the aviation industry, creating a collaborative environment for testing and scaling new technologies. An example of the lab’s efforts is ongoing testing of sustainable taxiing technologies, such as super tugs, that can potentially offer significant fuel savings, by allowing aircraft to taxi without using the main engines.
Sharma discusses Delta’s commitment to advancing sustainability beyond its own operations, aiming to drive broader industry progress. She highlights the pivotal role of employee engagement and knowledge exchange; Delta’s close collaboration with SkyTeam partners; and the lab’s disciplined framework for applied innovation in driving the industry towards net zero 2050 goals.
If you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversation we had with Delta Air Lines’ Chief Sustainability Officer, Amelia DeLuca who shares the airline’s collaborative vision for sustainability. 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 [email protected]. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.
Links & More:
Delta to launch innovation lab to accelerate the more sustainable future of flight - Delta Air Lines
Delta’s sustainability push is powered by a surprising customer insight - SimpliFlying
Sustainability - Delta Air Lines
Delta Sustainability Chief discusses cutting airline’s footprint and shift away from offsets - WSJ
Delta recognized for innovation in Sustainable Flight Challenge - Aviation Source News
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In this episode, we talk to Nicholas Flanders, Co-Founder and CEO of carbon transformation company, Twelve, who highlights the pivotal role of clean technology in addressing environmental challenges, particularly in hard-to-decarbonise sectors like aviation.
The versatility of Twelve’s technology is underscored by their ability to transform CO2 into a wide range of products, from sunglasses and washing detergents to car parts. Twelve’s innovative sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), called E-Jet®, made from CO2 and water, has up to 90% lower lifecycle emissions than conventional fuel. Flanders also shares E-jet’s journey from its initial testing with the US Air Force to securing commercial partnerships with Alaska Airlines, Microsoft and Shopify.
With a foundational vision of cost competitiveness, Twelve aims to revolutionise the industry and offer customers the lowest possible cost pathway to reduce emissions. Flanders also emphasises the strategic importance of green electricity and multi-year offtake agreements for scaling SAF production.
If you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversation we had with Dave Kettner, President and General Counsel at Virent, who shares the company’s innovative contributions in the field of renewable fuels and chemicals. 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 [email protected]. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.
Links & More:
E-Jet fuel - Twelve
Twelve Launches First Commercial-Scale SAF Production Facility - Carbon Herald
Alaska Airlines looks to ‘carbon transformation’ company Twelve for SAF supply - Flight Global
Etihad Airways plans to use sustainable fuel made from CO2 - Sustainability Magazine
Alaska Airlines, Microsoft and Twelve partner to advance new form of sustainable aviation fuel - Alaska Airlines
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In this episode, we talk to Marie Owens Thomsen, Senior Vice President Sustainability & Chief Economist at the International Air Transport Association (IATA), on the integration of sustainability and economics within the aviation sector, highlighting the pivotal role of Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) and the challenges of balancing growth with environmental stewardship.
Thomsen emphasises the interconnectedness of economic considerations and environmental sustainability, advocating for a systemic approach that extends beyond aviation to include energy producers, policymakers, and financial institutions.
The conversation further delves into the nuances of SAF production, underscoring the importance of diversifying and scaling technological pathways for SAF. Addressing criticisms of the aviation industry’s sustainability efforts, Thomsen highlights the industry’s proactive initiatives, positioning aviation as an early mover towards decarbonisation.
She also suggests that airlines explore vertical integration and alternative revenue streams to enhance both sustainability and economic resilience, reflecting on the industry’s recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic and the need for diversified business models to withstand future challenges.
If you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversation we had with 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. 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 [email protected]. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.
Links & More:
Our Commitment to Fly Net Zero by 2050 - IATA
Developing Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) - IATA
CORSIA explained
SAF Offtake Agreements - ICAO
IATA - Strengthened Global Framework for Accelerating Aviation’s Decarbonization
IATA - Net Zero Roadmaps
The non-profit working behind the scenes to get aviation to net zero by 2050 - SimpliFlying
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