Virgin Atlantic to trial fuel cut measures
Virgin Atlantic is to conduct a trial using 13 of its aircraft aiming to cut its aviation fuel use while also slashing carbon dioxide emissions.
By towing its Boeing 747-400s to take-off areas at London’s Heathrow and Gatwick airports rather than using the aircraft’s own power during December, the airline says it could save up to two tonnes of fuel per flight. A reduction of 120,000 tonnes in carbon emissions a year could be made if extended across the fleet.
“Towing aircraft from a stand substantially reduces the amount of time they need to taxi with their engines running and reduces the time spent queuing before take-off,” said a Virgin Atlantic spokesman.
The carrier is working alongside airport operator BAA and National Air Traffic Services (NATS) during the trial, with a longer run-out expected in the first quarter of 2007.
Aircraft will be towed from their stands to so-called “starting grids” – holding areas close to a runway consisting of several parking bays for aircraft awating take off.
Teams from Virgin Atlantic are also holding talks with the international airports in San Francisco and Los Angeles, as well as JF Kennedy airport in New York, about the timing of similar trials.
The airline’s general counsel Jill Brady said: “We are delighted to be working with BAA and NATS on this important initiative to cut fuel burn and CO2 emissions. It is only through cross-industry co-operation that practical solutions can be found.
“Towing aircraft from a stand substantially reduces the amount of time they need to taxi with their engines running and reduces the time spent queuing before take-off. Starting grids will also reduce congestion around stands, meaning aircraft that have redently landed will not have to wait with their engines running to get onto the stand.”
In September airline founder Sir Richard Branson said that up to 25% of the world’s aviation carbon dioxide emissions could be cut if airlines, airports and governments worked together and he also pledged Virgin Group profits worth $3bn (£1.6bn) towards renewable energy initiatives.
Phil Davies
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