Airline aims to cut emissions

Low-cost carrier easyJet has pledged to act to reduce the emissions produced by its flights and introduce new planes in the near future.

The airline unveiled its new 'easyJet ecoJet', which it says will help airlines meet environmental targets in the future.

According to the company, these new jets could be in service by 2015 and will produce 50 per cent less CO2 and 75 per cent less NOx (Nitrogen oxide) than the industry newest aircrafts.

To reduce CO2 emissions, easyJet says that future craft will improve their engines and become lighter. Better air traffic control technology and design could also help cut aircraft carbon output.

Under the new design, easyJet's flights would produce 47g of CO2 per passenger kilometre - compared to 97.5g at the moment. A Toyota Prius produces around 104g of CO2 per kilometre.

"The aviation industry has an excellent record in reducing the environmental footprint of aircraft," explained Andy Harrison, easyJet's chief executive. "Today's aircraft are typically 70 per cent cleaner and 75 per cent quieter than their 1960s counterparts.

The aircraft example we have unveiled today represents the next major step forward in airframe and engine technology."

Airlines like easyJet and Ryanair have repeatedly argued that aviation accounts for just two per cent of the UK's carbon emissions.

Published by:
Tony Hill