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. 

The Group airlines’ pilots apply the most energy-efficient procedures wherever possible: detailed flight plans, speed adjustment and optimized trajectories, and, on the ground, taxiing with one engine shut down. 

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.

To mitigate the impact of fuel tankering, which involves carrying excess fuel to destinations where it is more expensive, KLM and Transavia have stopped this practice completely, while Air France has discontinued fuel tankering on its short and medium-haul routes and considerably reduced it on its long-haul routes.

In 2024, KLM conducted tests to optimize aircraft center of gravity by adjusting cargo placement toward the rear of the aircraft, resulting in a more aerodynamic flight profile. This adjustment reduces drag and enhances fuel efficiency. Air France is also in a continuous process of optimizing center of gravity to reduce fuel consumption.