Operational efficiency measures

We have set up programs for GHG reduction across all the divisions. The focus areas of the programs are related to flight trajectory optimization, fuel policy, ecopiloting, aircraft performance, and onboard weight reduction.  

The Group is implementing new tools based on artificial intelligence in partnership with innovative startups. Air France and Transavia France have joined forces with OpenAirlines to deploy the SkyBreathe tool for the precise tracking of fuel-efficiency practices. Another example is the partnership with OptiFlight Solution by SITA, which uses flight data and machine learning to determine the most fuel-economical scenarios for all phases of a flight. Air France-KLM has developed decompression and drift down procedures to enable shorter routes around airspace closures, reducing the impact of flight disruption. Air France-KLM is also participating in the Single European Sky ATM (Air Traffic Management) Research and Development (SESAR) program. This 10-year program (2021-2031) aims to deliver technological solutions to transform air traffic management in Europe and reduce fuel burn to contribute to the Single Europe Sky's 10% CO₂ reduction target. 

Air France-KLM has developed decompression and drift-down procedures to enable shorter routes around airspace closures, reducing the impact of flight disruption. Furthermore, the Group airlines’ pilots apply fuel-efficient procedures wherever possible, including flight plan precision, speed adjustments, optimized trajectories, and taxiing with one engine shut down.

The Group’s airlines work closely with French and Dutch ATC to optimize their descents and take-offs for greater efficiency. Air France is closely associated with the Green Operation Task Force led by French Air Traffic Control, while KLM is involved in the Dutch Airspace Redesign Program (DARP) discussions, which enable the use of more efficient routes in the European and Dutch airspace. This redesign is expected to be completed in 2030, which should lead to optimized routing, reduced fuel consumption and noise pollution.

The Group recognizes that reducing the weight of aircraft is a significant factor to reduce CO₂ emissions, as the lighter the aircraft, the less fuel it consumes. To achieve this, the Group airlines have implemented various measures, such as reducing the weight of seats, galley and service equipment, minimizing the use of heavy products, adapting potable water volume to actual needs and optimizing the onboard catering. 

Also, the weight of equipment required to transport payloads is being addressed, with wooden beams to support the cargo being replaced by a lightweight cardboard version and the use of lightweight cargo containers. 

As part of its fleet renewal, the Group adopts fuel-efficient engines like the LEAP, P&W 1500, and GENx for its planes. Moreover, an innovative engine wash process allows on-the-gate cleaning, boosting performance and cutting fuel consumption. Collaboration with paint suppliers helps to reduce the weight of paint, enhancing aircraft streamlining and efficiency.