EasyJet is the first airline to partner with ground-breaking satellite technology designed to optimise flight paths, reduce delays and counter emissions through satellite technology.
ESA (European Space Agency) says that through the use of Iris, the Luton-based carrier will be able to operate its aircraft more efficiently to achieve fuel burn improvements and emissions reductions – a crucial element in the airline industry’s path to net zero.
The advent of more direct flight paths leads to shorter flying times, and thus uses less fuel burn and generates fewer emissions. Achieving this will be critical to reaching the Single European Sky’s ATM Research (SESAR) ambition to deliver 10% carbon emissions savings from European aviation.
EasyJet is using the Iris system on routes such as between London Southend and Alicante, and between Birmingham and Amsterdam. It has fitted the Iris system to a single plane, but is planning to deploy the technology on 10 more aircraft over the coming months.
In 2022, easyJet announced its interim science-based carbon reduction target – 35% carbon emissions intensity improvement by FY2035, on a FY2020 baseline. This came as part of the airline’s commitment to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
Hugh McConnelloge, Director of Operations & Navigation at easyjet said:
“More efficient use of airspace is a critical way we can tackle the industry’s emissions right now. Adopting Iris technology on these aircraft will enable easyJet to fly more directly and efficiently, thereby reducing carbon emissions as well as enhancing our on time performance – which in turn improves our customers’ experiences.
“We’re thrilled to be paving the way in this area whilst working towards our goal to achieve our net-zero ambitions by 2050, as outlined in our roadmap.”
Charlotte Neyret, Chief Executive Officer, ESSP, said:
“These first commercial flights are bringing to reality a decade of both vision and investment in this new datalink communication solution to achieve safer and greener aviation. ESSP is delighted to operate this moment of synchronisation between all stakeholders, from industry to airlines, with the proactive contribution of numerous Air Navigation Service Providers. Thanks to all partners, ESSP is proud to provide Iris Satcom datalink service to Europe, as well as to initiate the Iris flights with a key airline such as easyJet. Iris technology allows the development of new environmentally friendly routes, which will improve ATC management, reduce fuel costs and lead to the deployment of more efficient air operations.”
Joel Klooster, senior vice president for flight safety and advanced air mobility at Viasat said:
“We are thrilled to see Iris flying with a leading airline such as easyJet, a crucial step on our pathway to reducing emissions and easing congestion in European skies.