Sustainability In The Air

In this episode, we speak with Tom O'Leary, CEO and co-founder of JetZero, which is developing the world's first commercial blended wing body (BWB) aircraft that promises to revolutionise aviation efficiency and passenger experience.JetZero is one of the visionary companies featured in our new book Sustainability in the Air: Volume Two. You can learn more about the book and order a copy here.O'Leary discusses:JetZero's mission to bring the first all-wing jet to market by the early 2030s, touting its unbeatable 30% aerodynamic efficiency advantage.How the BWB design achieves up to 50% reduction in fuel burn and emissions through optimised lift across the entire wingspan, reduced drag, lower weight from carbon composites, and integration with existing single-aisle-sized engines.Strategic partnerships with the U.S. Air Force and NASA for dual-use development, plus collaboration with major suppliers like RTX (Pratt & Whitney) and airlines including Delta and Alaska.Revolutionary passenger experience features including eight-foot ceilings, six boarding aisles, dedicated personal storage space, and wider seats across all classes.If you LOVED this episode, you'll also love the conversation we had with Dr. Christoph Gebald, Co-founder and Co-CEO of Climeworks, who talks about scaling direct air capture technology and its vital role in sustainable aviation. Check it out here. Learn more about the startups, strategists, and sceptics working to close the gap between growth and green ambition in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air: Volume Two'. Click here to learn more.Feel free to reach out via email to podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It's about time.Links & more:New book: Sustainability in the Air, Vol Two - SimpliFlyingJetZero United Invests in JetZero, Could Acquire 200 Blended Wing Body Aircraft - FLYING Magazine JetZero Pitches Blended Wing Body Tanker as 'Game-Changer' - A&SF Magazine‘Daunting but not impossible': JetZero endeavors to deliver world's first ‘all-wing' commercial jet - Flight Global Sustainability In The Air (2 book series) Paperback Edition - Amazon How Climeworks is making Direct Air Capture a viable decarbonisation pathway - SimpliFlying

In this episode, we speak with Marion N Chivot-Legris, Director of ESG & Sustainability Strategy at Edmonton International Airport (YEG), who shares how the Canadian airport is leveraging its unique position to drive sustainability innovation across the region.Chivot-Legris discusses:YEG's transformation into a “sustainability engine” for the entire region, building an integrated ecosystem that brings together clean energy companies, logistics, agri-food technologies, and education beyond traditional aviation operations.The airport's leadership in hydrogen development, leveraging Alberta's position as Canada's hydrogen corridor, with nearly 60% of the country's hydrogen produced in the Edmonton metropolitan region, to test use cases from ground vehicles to potential future aircraft.YEG's methodical approach to hydrogen adoption, starting with Toyota Mirai cars and Hyundai NEXO vehicles before progressing to heavier equipment like hydrogen-diesel dual fuel runway sweepers as stepping stones toward future hydrogen infrastructure.The airport's complementary approach to sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and hydrogen, and how it's working with local partners to advance SAF production.Key lessons for airports beginning their sustainability journey: progress doesn't require perfection, partnerships are essential, and transparency in sharing both successes and challenges builds trust and encourages collaboration.Chivot-Legris also offers unique insights into how airports can serve as innovation hubs that extend their impact far beyond traditional aviation operations.If you LOVED this episode, you'll also love the conversation we had with Swedavia's Lena Wennberg & Therese Forsström, who share the airport operator's ambitious plans for a fossil-free future. Check it out here. Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry's challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air: Volume 2'. Click here to learn more.Feel free to reach out via email to podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It's about time.Links & More:Environmental, social & governance (ESG) - YEG CorporateHydrogen-powered runway sweepers at Edmonton Airport - International Airport Review Drone Delivery Canada expands collaborative drone operations at Edmonton International Airport - DRONELIFEEdmonton Airport and ZeroAvia partner to develop hydrogen infrastructure in Canada - FTE  

In this special episode, SimpliFlying's CEO Shashank Nigam and Head of Sustainability Dirk Singer sit down with senior leaders from three companies featured in their upcoming book, Sustainability in the Air, Vol. II. Joining the conversation are Jonathon Counsell (Group Head of Sustainability, IAG), Diana Birkett Rakow (SVP of Public Affairs and Sustainability, Alaska Airlines), and Ashwin Jadhav (VP of Business Development, Twelve). Together, they explore how their organisations are addressing aviation's toughest sustainability challenges — and where the industry is headed next.Here are some key highlights from the episode:Why Volume II? Singer explains why the time was right for a second volume of Sustainability in the Air: the landscape has shifted dramatically in just 18 months, with a sharper focus on commercial viability and real-world implementation.Industry maturation: The sustainable aviation sector has evolved to focus on business benefits beyond environmental credentials — being green alone is no longer enough.IAG's SAF usage: Counsell shares how IAG has become an industry frontrunner in sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), using 162,000 tons last year — about 1.9% of its total fuel consumption.Long-term partnerships:Jadhav discusses Twelve's landmark 14-year SAF offtake agreement with IAG – an extraordinary commitment in an industry where one-year contracts are the norm.Investing in innovation: Birkett Rakow highlights Alaska Airlines' approach to sustainability through strategic investments in climate tech companies like Twelve, ZeroAvia, and JetZero via Alaska Star Ventures.Corporate partnerships: The discussion explores how Microsoft's partnership with Alaska Airlines and Twelve is helping absorb the green premium — demonstrating the role non-aviation players can play in accelerating industry transformation.The role of policy: All three guests weigh in on the urgent need for government support to help scale sustainable aviation solutions.Sustainability in the Air Vol. II will be available soon, and you can preorder your copy now on Amazon. Be among the first to discover these practical insights from airlines, airports, and climate tech companies working to decarbonise aviation.Links & More:Sustainability in the Air: Innovators transforming aviation for a greener future - SimpliFlying Alaska Airlines' multi-faceted approach to achieving net zero by 2040 - SimpliFlying How Twelve's carbon transformation technology is making carbon-neutral fuels a reality - SimpliFlying Why IAG is focusing on the practicality of SAF more than emerging technologies - SimpliFlying 

In this episode, we speak with Jolanda Stevens, Program Manager for Zero Emission Aviation at KLM, who shares how the airline is preparing for a more sustainable future of aviation through innovative technologies and strategic investment in emerging solutions.Stevens discusses:KLM's unique approach to innovation with a dedicated team focused on the “disruptive” aviation technology, working on future solutions like electric and hydrogen aircraft whilst maintaining their core flight operations.How different zero-emission technologies will serve specific segments of KLM's network, with battery-electric suitable for shorter routes, hydrogen for medium-range, and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) remaining crucial for long-haul flights.KLM's systematic process for evaluating potential technology partners based on aircraft concepts, technical assumptions, company credibility, and even “gut feeling” to determine which innovations deserve investment.The airline's research into passenger perceptions of new technologies, addressing critical questions about safety, comfort, and willingness to pay for sustainable aviation solutions.KLM's role in driving system-wide transformation, recognising that zero-emission aviation requires changes in infrastructure, legislation, ground handling, and safety protocols across the entire industry.As a pilot who found deeper purpose in sustainability work, Stevens offers unique insights into how a 105-year-old airline is actively shaping aviation's next technological revolution rather than simply waiting for it to arrive.If you LOVED this episode, you'll also love the conversation we had with Amelia DeLuca, Chief Sustainability Officer at Delta Air Lines, who shares the airline's collaborative vision for sustainability. Check it out here. Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry's challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air'. Click here to learn more.Feel free to reach out via email to podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It's about time.Links & More:What KLM does to make air travel more sustainable - KLM KLM and ZeroAvia plan zero-emission demonstration flight using liquid hydrogen - Zeroavia KLM joins Heart Aerospace, will help design its electric turboprop - Aviacionline Why is KLM Calling for Stricter SAF Policies from the EU? - Sustainability Magazine 

In this episode, we speak with Martin Gauss, former CEO of airBaltic, who transformed the Latvian flag carrier into one of Europe's most innovative airlines while connecting the entire Baltic region.Gauss discusses:The benefits of operating a single-fleet airline with the highly efficient Airbus A220-300, resulting in 30% lower fuel consumption than older generation aircraft and contributing to airBaltic's path to carbon neutrality by 2050.airBaltic's innovative dual business model that combines scheduled operations with wet lease services for major carriers like Lufthansa Group, creating flexibility and financial resilience.The airline's commitment to sustainability through fleet modernisation, gradually increasing SAF usage, and partnerships with innovative manufacturers like Fokker NextGen for hydrogen-powered aircraft.How airBaltic established itself as an industry leader in adopting new technologies, from becoming the first airline to accept Bitcoin in 2014 to pioneering Starlink internet service in Europe.His perspective on balancing growth with sustainability, emphasising that connectivity is essential for economic development while working toward emission-free aviation.The Baltic states' capacity for innovation, demonstrating how a small country like Latvia can lead the way in aviation technology and sustainability.As an airline pilot-turned-CEO, Gauss offers valuable insights into how smaller airlines can lead industry change through bold technology choices and business model innovation.If you LOVED this episode, you'll also love the conversation we had with Anko van der Werff, President & CEO of Scandinavian Airlines (SAS), who shares the airline's ambitious sustainability initiatives. Check it out here. Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry's challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air'. Click here to learn more.Feel free to reach out via email to podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It's about time.Links & More:ESG - airBaltic Fokker Next Gen partners with airBaltic on new liquid hydrogen powered commercial aircraft – GreenAir News airBaltic achieves one-Year milestone in increased SAF implementation - Travel And Tour World airBaltic to Expand Training Fleet With All-Electric eD40 - FLYING Magazine 

In this episode, we speak with  Amaury Barberot, CEO of Expliseat, about how the company's innovative lightweight seating technology is delivering immediate sustainability benefits for airlines while improving their bottom line.Barberot discusses:Expliseat's revolutionary aircraft seat design made from carbon fibre and titanium that is 30% lighter than comparable products, saving approximately 1,200 kilograms when retrofitted on an Airbus A320 or Boeing 737.The immediate environmental impact of their lightweight seats, which deliver a 6% CO2 emission reduction per passenger without requiring airlines to wait for future technology developments.How the weight reduction focuses on the "invisible parts" of the seat, preserving passenger comfort while still delivering sustainability benefits.The company's circular manufacturing approach, which recycles industrial waste from seat frames to create new components like tray tables, further reducing their environmental footprint.Their recent expansion into the rail industry, where their lightweight technology helps train operators overcome axle weight limitations to improve passenger amenities or increase capacity.Barberot emphasises that Expliseat represents one of the rare sustainability solutions where "CSO and CFO do not fight," highlighting how their technology aligns environmental and economic objectives for airlines across different regions and business models.If you LOVED this episode, you'll also love the conversation we had with Dr. Mark Hiller, CEO at RECARO Aircraft Seating and Recaro Holding. Check it out here. Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry's challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air'. Click here to learn more.Feel free to reach out via email to podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It's about time.Links & More:Expliseat Expliseat Showcases New Lightweight Seating at MRO Americas 2025 - Aviation Pros Why every kilogram counts: the critical role of cabin design in sustainable aviation - SimpliFlying Expliseat TiSeat 2 X: the inside story - Aircraft Interiors International Expliseat brings ultra-light aircraft seats to rail industry - Runway Girl Network Expliseat aims to be lightweight champion in aircraft seats - Flight GlobalHow sustainable aircraft seats can be a game-changer - SimpliFlying  

In this episode, we speak with Lena Wennberg, Chief Sustainable Development Officer, and Therese Forsström, Head of Environmental Department at Swedavia, which owns and operates 10 airports across Sweden, connecting the country both internally and with the rest of the world.Wennberg and Forsström discuss:Swedavia's achievement of fossil-free operations in 2020 in their own airport operations, backed by committed leadership that views sustainability as a “license to operate.”Their ambitious goal to enable fossil-free domestic flights in Sweden by 2030, primarily through sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), with plans to reach 10% SAF usage.Swedavia's incentive program that covers 50% of the premium cost for airlines refuelling with SAF, plus their procurement of SAF for their own business travel for the last nine years.The airport's preparations for future technologies, including charging infrastructure for electric aircraft at smaller airports and collaboration with Airbus on hydrogen infrastructure.The balancing of sustainability with operational needs in a country where air travel is essential due to the vast geography.As industry leaders working towards fossil-free aviation since long before it became mainstream, Swedavia offers a compelling example of how airports can transform environmental commitments into tangible action while maintaining operational excellence.If you LOVED this episode, you'll also love the conversation we had with Christina Cassotis, CEO of Pittsburgh International Airport, who shares her ambitious vision for transforming the airport into a sustainable aviation hub. Check it out here. Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry's challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air'. Click here to learn more.Feel free to reach out via email to podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It's about time.Links & More:Strategy for sustainability - Swedavia Swedavia allocates SEK40m for SAF incentives - SAF Investor Swedavia raises SEK 2 billion through green bond issuance to support sustainable investments and operations - International Airport Review Airbus, SAS, Swedavia and Vattenfall pave the way for hydrogen aviation in Sweden and Norway - Airbus

In this episode, we speak with Matteo Mirolo, Director of Strategy & External Relations at Contrails.org, a science-led nonprofit initiative aimed at transforming contrail research into practical climate action. Mirolo discusses:The substantial climate impact of contrails, which are responsible for 1-2% of human-caused global warming and have roughly the same warming effect as all aviation CO2 emissions since the jet age.The concentrated nature of the problem, with just 5% of flights causing about 80% of aviation's contrail warming effect, primarily over Europe, North America, and the North Atlantic.Contrails.org's three-pillar approach focusing on science (improving understanding of contrail impacts), technology (developing open-source tools and protocols), and adoption (raising awareness and fostering incentives).The cost-effectiveness of contrail mitigation compared to other decarbonisation options, with studies suggesting only 0.11% extra fuel burn across airline fleets.The vision for seamless integration into airline operations, where contrail avoidance becomes as routine as avoiding turbulence or adverse weather.Contrails.org seeks to be an open, collaborative space, with Mirolo likening it to “a tent under which people can put their furniture.” Its goal is to address the contrail issue through collective effort, recognising that effective management requires coordination across the aviation sector.If you LOVED this episode, you'll also love the conversation we had with Alejandra Martín Frías, Head of Sustainability Research at FLIGHTKEYS, who shared insights into the company's research on contrail avoidance. Check it out here. Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry's challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air'. Click here to learn more.Feel free to reach out via email to podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It's about time.Links & More:Contrails.orgHow airplane contrails are helping make the planet warmer - Yale e360 Feasibility of contrail avoidance in a commercial flight planning system: an operational analysis - IOPscience Understanding contrail management: opportunities, challenges, and insights - RMIThis episode is brought to you by 4AIR. 4AIR is leading the way with the industry's first framework to address aviation's climate impact—offering clear, verifiable pathways to reduce and counteract aircraft emissions. For more information, please visit: https://www.4air.aero/

In this episode, we speak with Pasha Saleh, Head of Corporate Development at Alaska Airlines, who leads Alaska Star Ventures, the airline's corporate venture capital arm focused on sustainable aviation technologies. Saleh shares insights about the airline's approach to sustainability investments and their vision for decarbonising the industry.Saleh discusses:The founding vision for Alaska Star Ventures, which was established to accelerate the development of technologies that don't yet exist but are essential for achieving net zero.The investment strategy that started with partnerships with firms to gain expertise before making direct investments, resulting in nearly $90 million deployed to date across various aviation sustainability technologies.Strategic investments in companies like Jet Zero, a blended wing aircraft that could deliver up to 50% fuel reduction.The airline's approach to sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) investments through companies like Twelve and Air Company, focusing on Power-to-Liquid technology that produces fuel from air and water.Saleh emphasises that sustainability investments are “going to give rise to whole new industries that don't exist yet today,” highlighting Alaska Airlines' approach to shaping the future of sustainable aviation.If you LOVED this episode, you'll also love the conversation we had with Eveliina Huurre, SVP, Sustainability at Finnair, who shares the airline's comprehensive approach to sustainability as it celebrated its centenary last year. Check it out here. Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry's challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air'. Click here to learn more.Feel free to reach out via email to podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It's about time.Links & More:Alaska Airlines launches investment arm to accelerate progress to net zero - Alaska AirlinesAlaska Airlines announces investment in JetZero to propel innovative aircraft technology and design - PR NewswireAlaska Airlines' venture lab spins out its first startup: Odysee - TechCrunch   ESG - Alaska Airlines This episode is brought to you by 4AIR. 4AIR is leading the way with the industry's first framework to address aviation's climate impact—offering clear, verifiable pathways to reduce and counteract aircraft emissions. For more information, please visit: https://www.4air.aero/

In this episode, we speak with Eveliina Huurre, Senior Vice President, Sustainability at Finnair, who shares insights about the airline's approach to sustainability and their ambitious targets to reduce emissions. Huurre discusses:The employee engagement initiative that yielded 300 sustainability ideas, with 100 selected for implementation during Finnair's centenary celebrations, ranging from small cultural changes to more substantial investments in sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).Finnair's science-based target to reduce carbon emissions intensity by 34.5% by 2033 (using 2023 as the baseline), translating to approximately 13% net reduction in absolute CO2 emissions, despite expected growth.The central role of SAF in Finnair's sustainability strategy, with plans to increase its usage from 0.4% in 2023 to 1.8% in 2024, and to double voluntary SAF purchases in 2025.Finnair's approach to operational efficiencies, including fuel-saving strategies like optimised aircraft allocation, pilot training for fuel efficiency and single engine taxiing.Innovative customer engagement through a simple SAF contribution option in the booking process, allowing passengers to contribute between €3-15 per flight, with early adoption exceeding expectations.The importance of industry collaboration at national, European and global levels, working with organisations like IATA, oneworld alliance (on joint SAF purchases), and A4E on policy frameworks to enable the energy transition in aviation.Huurre emphasises that making aviation sustainable isn't about “who gets there first, but how we do this together,” highlighting Finnair's approach to the challenges and opportunities in advancing sustainable air travel.If you LOVED this episode, you'll also love the conversation we had with Grace Cheung, General Manager of Sustainability at Cathay, who shares insights about the airline's “greener together” approach to sustainable aviation. Check it out here. Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry's challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air'. Click here to learn more.Feel free to reach out via email to podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It's about time.Links & More:Sustainability - Finnair Finnair announces 100 sustainability efforts to mark 100 years - Inflight6 highlights of our sustainability work from last year - FinnairThis episode is brought to you by 4AIR. 4AIR is leading the way with the industry's first framework to address aviation's climate impact—offering clear, verifiable pathways to reduce and counteract aircraft emissions. For more information, please visit: https://www.4air.aero/

In this special episode, we bring together Patrick Edmond, Managing Director of Altair Advisory, and Shashank Nigam, CEO of SimpliFlying, to discuss whether aviation demand management is a myth or a necessary component of climate action. Moderated by Dirk Singer, SimpliFlying's Head of Sustainability, the discussion stems from a heated LinkedIn exchange between Patrick and Shashank, sparked by Shashank's reflections after speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos earlier this year. As the debate gained momentum online, many called for a live conversation – so we decided to host the debate on Sustainability in the Air.The debate covers:The fundamental tension between airline growth ambitions and climate goals, with Shashank sharing insights from his Davos roundtable where aviation CEOs emphasised unfettered growth instead of sustainable growth.The concept of the “guilt premium” versus the “good global citizen premium” in sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) adoption to achieve price parity, with Patrick arguing that systemic policy changes are needed rather than relying on individual airline actions.The relationship between ticket pricing and travel behaviour, and whether raising ticket prices can curb aviation demand.The frequent flyer problem, with a small percentage of travellers accounting for a disproportionate share of emissions, and why a frequent flyer levy is an effective solution.Unexpected silver linings, such as how loyalty program changes might inadvertently encourage more sustainable corporate travel practices.In the end, despite their differing perspectives, Shashank and Patrick found common ground, agreeing that while technological innovation is crucial, broader systemic approaches are needed to address aviation's growing climate impact.If you LOVED this episode, you'll also love the conversation we had with Lee Beck and Thomas Walker of the Clean Air Task Force who discuss the complex challenges and innovative solutions for decarbonising the aviation industry. Check it out here. Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry's challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air'. Click here to learn more.Feel free to reach out via email to podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It's about time.Links & More:Why “flying less” offers the best path to sustainable aviation - T&EAviation likely to be the UK's leading emitter by 2040, forecasts Climate Change Committee - GreenAir News This episode is brought to you by 4AIR. 4AIR is leading the way with the industry's first framework to address aviation's climate impact—offering clear, verifiable pathways to reduce and counteract aircraft emissions. For more information, please visit: https://www.4air.aero/

In this episode, we speak with Lucca Ewbank, Program Manager, Transport at InfluenceMap, who shares how the non-profit think tank uses data-driven analysis to assess corporate engagement with climate policies, and holds the corporate and financial sectors accountable for their role in climate change.Ewbank discusses:The significant disparity between what airlines say publicly versus what they advocate for in private meetings with policymakers, uncovered through Freedom of Information (FOI) requests that reveal how industry associations often oppose stronger climate regulations.The clear split within the aviation sector between “positive leaders” (typically low-cost carriers) who support more ambitious climate policies, and “laggards” (legacy carriers) who often oppose extensions of emissions trading schemes.Concerns about sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) policies, particularly how some industry players advocate for feedstock calculations that might underestimate emissions.The aviation industry's consistent opposition to demand management measures, with examples of airlines taking legal action against flight caps at airports.The role investors can play in encouraging positive climate policy engagement by holding companies accountable for their lobbying activities and pushing for transparency between public commitments and private advocacy.Ewbank emphasises that while there are encouraging signs from some industry leaders, aviation emissions continue to grow rapidly even as other sectors reduce their climate impact, with EU aviation emissions rising 9.5% in 2023 while overall EU emissions fell by 8%.If you LOVED this episode, you'll also love the conversation we had with Matt Finch, UK Policy Manager at Transport & Environment, who discusses the need for more ambitious policies and actions to address aviation's environmental impact. Check it out here. Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry's challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air'. Click here to learn more.Feel free to reach out via email to podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It's about time.Links & More:InfluenceMapNew research shows major US airline and biofuel industries push for weaker US sustainable aviation fuel policy - InfluenceMap US Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) policies and corporate engagement - InfluenceMap EY, Capgemini & InfluenceMaThis episode is brought to you by 4AIR. 4AIR is leading the way with the industry's first framework to address aviation's climate impact—offering clear, verifiable pathways to reduce and counteract aircraft emissions. For more information, please visit: https://www.4air.aero/

In this episode, we speak with Jan Toschka, CEO of Zaffra, a joint venture between Topsoe and Sasol.  Toschka shares insights about scaling sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production and why he believes the aviation industry must take responsibility for its own decarbonisation rather than relying on other sectors.Toschka discusses:The unique positioning of Zaffra, combining Topsoe's expertise in low-carbon HEFA technology with Sasol's experience in building and operating large-scale gas-to-liquid facilities, positioning them strongly in both renewable and synthetic SAF production.His perspective on financing SAF infrastructure, breaking down the seemingly daunting €250 billion European investment needed by 2050 into more manageable numbers – about €10 billion annually, which could be funded by approximately €10 per passenger across Europe's billion annual travellers.The complementary role of different SAF technologies, with HEFA being the most de-risked pathway currently available, whilst power-to-liquid (PTL) solutions are expected to provide at least 50% of SAF volume in 20-30 years.The importance of both mandates and incentives in driving SAF adoption, with EU mandates helping de-risk demand whilst US incentives under the IRA make investments more manageable. Toschka suggests a combination of both approaches, similar to the UK model, might work best.The strategic approach to SAF distribution, advocating for focused deployment at 20-30 major hub airports initially, supported by book-and-claim systems, rather than attempting immediate widespread distribution across all airports.Toschka emphasises that whilst the aviation industry should pursue multiple decarbonisation pathways including hydrogen and electric aircraft, SAF remains the only viable solution for long-haul aviation in the foreseeable future, and the industry cannot afford to wait for perfect solutions whilst existing aircraft continue operating.If you LOVED this episode, you'll also love the conversation we had with Sarah Ellerby, CEO of Nova Pangaea Technologies (NPT), a UK-based cleantech company that has created a patented technology to enable SAF production from agricultural and forestry waste. Check it out here. Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry's challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air'. Click here to learn more.Feel free to reach out via email to podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It's about time.Links & More:ZaffraSasol and Topsoe launch Zaffra: A venture to help decarbonise aviation - Renewable Energy Magazine This episode is brought to you by 4AIR. 4AIR is leading the way with the industry's first framework to address aviation's climate impact—offering clear, verifiable pathways to reduce and counteract aircraft emissions. For more information, please visit: https://www.4air.aero/

In this episode, we speak with Grace Cheung, General Manager, Sustainability at Cathay, who shares insights about industry collaboration, and why she believes making aviation “greener together” requires participation from every stakeholder in the value chain.Cheung discusses:Her journey from marketing communications to sustainability and how her background helps “translate” complex environmental initiatives into understandable business language for stakeholders and customers.Cathay's ambitious target of achieving 10% SAF usage by 2030, including their innovative partnership with HSBC Hong Kong and EcoCeres to develop local SAF supply chains in Asia.The evolution of sustainability at Cathay, from early voluntary environmental reporting in 1998 to today's comprehensive approach involving fleet modernisation, with a HKD100 billion investment in over 100 new aircraft over the next seven years.How cross-industry collaboration in sustainable aviation, particularly through oneworld Alliance and International Air Transport Association (IATA) partnerships, allows airlines to share best practices for environmental progress. Cheung chairs the oneworld alliance Environment & Sustainability Board and is Vice Chair of the IATA Sustainability & Environment Advisory Council.The challenges of funding SAF's price premium and potential solutions, including government initiatives like Singapore's SAF levy and Hong Kong's upcoming SAF usage targets.If you LOVED this episode, you'll also love the conversation we had with Anko van der Werff, President & CEO of Scandinavian Airlines (SAS). Check it out here. Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry's challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air'. Click here to learn more.Feel free to reach out via email to podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It's about time.Links & More:Cathay Pacific Cathay sets new 2030 carbon intensity target in support of its 2050 net-zero goal - Cathay Pacific HSBC Hong Kong, Cathay Pacific andThis episode is brought to you by 4AIR. 4AIR is leading the way with the industry's first framework to address aviation's climate impact—offering clear, verifiable pathways to reduce and counteract aircraft emissions. For more information, please visit: https://www.4air.aero/

In this episode, we speak with Dick Benschop, Chair of the Board at Mission Possible Partnership (MPP), an alliance of climate leaders focused on supercharging efforts to decarbonise hard-to-abate sectors.Benschop discusses:The challenge of decarbonising aviation amid rapid growth with focus on both efficiency and sustainable fuels.How blending mandates can break the “chicken and egg” problem between SAF suppliers and airlines, with Europe's 2% mandate in 2025 serving as a catalyst for market development. Currently, there are 40 SAF plants in operation and 10 with Final Investment Decision (FID), representing about 50% of 2030 capacity needs, with 143 more plants announced*.The importance of smart environmental constraints over simple capacity caps, advocating for declining noise and CO2 emission limits that allow airlines to “earn their place” through innovation.The potential for electric and hydrogen aircraft to serve up to one-third of aviation energy demand by 2050, with electric planes operational by 2030 and hydrogen aircraft following by 2035.How breaking down silos between sectors can accelerate decarbonisation, using lessons from aviation's blending mandates to inform solutions in other industries like green fertiliser production.Benschop emphasises that achieving net-zero aviation requires looking beyond individual sectors to system-wide solutions, highlighting the need for coordinated action across industry, government and consumers. *Note: The podcast mentions different figures for the number of SAF plants needed. The numbers cited above reflect MPP's latest analysis, which shows that actual plants are larger than initially assumed, meaning fewer total plants are needed to meet 2030 capacity targets. If you LOVED this episode, you'll also love the conversation we had with Andrew Chen, Principal for Aviation Decarbonisation at RMI, who shares the non-profit's multi-faceted approach to aviation decarbonisation. Check it out here. Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry's challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air'. Click here to learn more.Feel free to reach out via email to podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It's about time.Links & More:Mission Possible PartnershipAviation - Mission Possible Partnership Aviation Net Zero Explorer - Mission Possible PartnershipMission Possible Partnership unveils how three of the most carbon intensive industries can reach net zero This episode is brought to you by 4AIR. 4AIR is leading the way with the industry's first framework to address aviation's climate impact—offering clear, verifiable pathways to reduce and counteract aircraft emissions. For more information, please visit: https://www.4air.aero/

In this episode, we speak with Anna Stratton, Associate Director, Aviation at ClimateWorks Foundation, a global platform for philanthropy that has granted over $2 billion to climate solutions across 50 countries. Stratton shares insights into how philanthropic funding can drive aviation's transition to net zero while ensuring emerging markets aren't left behind. She discusses:The crucial role of philanthropy in advancing sustainable aviation solutions through research, analysis, and policy developmentWhy Europe's ReFuelEU policy sets a strong standard for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) mandate with its long-term outlook to 2050, specific e-fuel requirements, and robust sustainability safeguardsThe potential of hydrogen for short and medium-haul flights, and the innovative approach of collaborating with shipping sector for infrastructure solutionsWhy contrail mitigation represents an exciting near-term opportunity for emissions reduction, and the importance of monitoring and verificationThe need to reimagine aviation growth, particularly focusing on high-flying groups like corporate travelersStratton emphasises that while industry focuses heavily on SAF, a comprehensive vision for net-zero aviation must include multiple solutions. She also outlines how philanthropy can strategically support civil society in driving aviation's sustainable transformation, highlighting the need for both technological innovation and behavioural change.Please note: This interview was recorded in September 2024. ClimateWorks has since updated its 2024 transportation grants, with $5.5M allocated to aviation, $72.3M to road transportation, and $13.3M to maritime shipping, bringing the total to $91.1M. The updated data is available on their website.If you LOVED this episode, you'll also love the conversation we had with  Sally Davey, CEO of Travalyst, who shares insights about transforming the travel industry through collaborative data initiatives. Check it out here. Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry's challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air'. Click here to learn more.Feel free to reach out via email to podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It's about time.Links & More:ClimateWorks FoundationTransportation - ClimateWorks FoundationLess is more: How reducing demand for unnecesThis episode is brought to you by 4AIR. 4AIR is leading the way with the industry's first framework to address aviation's climate impact—offering clear, verifiable pathways to reduce and counteract aircraft emissions. For more information, please visit: https://www.4air.aero/

In this episode, we speak with Matthew Gorman, Director of Carbon Strategy and Sustainability at Heathrow Airport. With 16 years at the helm of Heathrow's sustainability initiatives, Gorman shares how one of the world's busiest airports is tackling aviation's climate impact while maintaining its crucial role in global connectivity.Gorman discusses:Heathrow's Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) incentive scheme, which creates a funding pool through landing charges to help airlines bridge the cost gap of SAF adoption. Starting at 0.5% in 2022, the target will reach 3% by next year, with approximately 20 airlines participating.The breakdown of Heathrow's carbon footprint, highlighting that nearly 95% comes from aircraft operations, around 5% from ground activities such as surface access and the supply chain, and just 0.1% from direct operations (Scope 1).The future of hydrogen aviation, with expectations of first hydrogen-powered services in the early 2030s starting with turboprops, and how Heathrow is preparing infrastructure through research partnerships and dedicated testing facilities.Their innovative approach to NOx emissions reduction, targeting 18% reduction in airside operations and 60% in non-aircraft operations by 2030, driven by Heathrow's proximity to London.Throughout the conversation, Gorman emphasises the critical balance between maintaining aviation's connectivity benefits while achieving net zero, and how airports can lead the sector's sustainability transition through influence and advocacy despite controlling only a small fraction of total emissions.If you LOVED this episode, you'll also love the conversation we had with Christina Cassotis, CEO of Pittsburgh International Airport, who shares her ambitious vision for transforming the airport into a sustainable aviation hub. Check it out here. Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry's challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air'. Click here to learn more.Feel free to reach out via email to podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It's about time.Links & More:Heathrow 2.0 Sustainability StrategyHeathrow Airport targets 3% SAF use in 2025 - Biodiesel Magazine Heathrow launches ‘Nature Positive Plan' to tackle biodiversity loss - edie Four of UK's biggest airports pledge to ‘Back British SAF' - Aerospace Global NewsThis episode is brought to you by 4AIR. 4AIR is leading the way with the industry's first framework to address aviation's climate impact—offering clear, verifiable pathways to reduce and counteract aircraft emissions. For more information, please visit: https://www.4air.aero/

In this episode, we speak with Sally Davey, CEO of Travalyst. Founded in 2019 by Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex, Travalyst is a not-for-profit coalition that brings together leading companies from the travel and technology sectors. Davey shares insights into Travalyst's mission and its impact on making tourism more sustainable through collaborative data initiatives. She discusses:How Travalyst has united competing travel giants like Google, Booking.com, and Expedia to work together on sustainability, creating a coalition with a market worth of nearly $3 trillion that shares data and standards non-competitively.The critical role of data in driving change. Travalyst aims to create consistent, accessible sustainability metrics across the travel industry.How the Travel Impact Model (TIM) has powered over 65 billion flight searches worldwide, helping travellers make informed decisions about their carbon footprint when booking flights. The model is open-source and freely available to all industry players.Travalyst's expansion into accommodation sustainability through their Data Hub initiative, which tracks 60 attributes across 6 environmental and social categories, and their certification program that has validated 49 sustainability standards.Their vision for regenerative tourism that goes beyond reducing negative impacts to actively benefiting local communities, preserving cultural heritage, and enhancing environmental conservation.Throughout the conversation, Davey emphasises the importance of balancing environmental and economic sustainability, the power of industry collaboration, and how data-driven decisions can transform tourism into a force for good. If you LOVED this episode, you'll also love the conversation we had with Sebnem Erzan, Global Head of Travel Sustainability & Transport at Google, who shares the tech giant's vision for sustainable travel. Check it out here. Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry's challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air'. Click here to learn more.Feel free to reach out via email to podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It's about time.Links & More:TravalystTravel Impact Model Flight emissions data shown in over 65 billion searches worldwide - Travalyst First flights, now the Travalyst climate coalition turns to hospitality data - Skift This episode is brought to you by 4AIR. 4AIR is leading the way with the industry's first framework to address aviation's climate impact—offering clear, verifiable pathways to reduce and counteract aircraft emissions. For more information, please visit: https://www.4air.aero/

In this episode, we speak with Dr. Christoph Gebald, co-founder and co-CEO of Climeworks, one of the world's leading direct air capture (DAC) companies. Gebald shares insights into Climeworks' journey and vision for the future, and the crucial role of carbon removal in achieving sustainable aviation.He discusses:How their direct air capture technology (DAC) removes CO2 from the atmosphere and stores it permanently underground through mineralisation. Climeworks has achieved a significant technological breakthrough with their Generation 3 technology, which doubles CO2 capture capacity per module while halving energy consumption, making it increasingly cost-competitive.Climeworks' notable partnerships with major airlines including SWISS, Lufthansa, and British Airways.Climeworks' second commercial direct air capture and storage plant Mammoth, which opened in 2024 in Iceland. The facility is designed to capture up to 36,000 tons of CO2 annually once fully operational and is the world's largest DAC facility.Climeworks Solutions, which offers a portfolio approach to carbon removal that combines their DAC with other methods like biochar and afforestation, meeting clients' needs for diversified climate action strategies.Throughout the conversation, Gebald emphasises the complementary nature of different climate solutions, the importance of both technological and natural approaches, and his optimism about consumer demand driving sustainable aviation. If you LOVED this episode, you'll also love the conversation we had with Anna Stukas, Vice President of Strategic Partnerships at 1PointFive, who discusses DAC's crucial role in aviation's path to net zero. Check it out here. Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry's challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air'. Click here to learn more.Feel free to reach out via email to podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It's about time.Links & More:ClimeworksClimeworks strikes 40,000-ton carbon removal deal with Morgan Stanley - WSJSWISS, Lufthansa Group sign carbon removal deal with Climeworks - ESG Today  Climeworks opens world's largest plant to extract CO2 from air in Iceland - ReutersThis episode is brought to you by 4AIR. 4AIR is leading the way with the industry's first framework to address aviation's climate impact—offering clear, verifiable pathways to reduce and counteract aircraft emissions. For more information, please visit: https://www.4air.aero/

In this special holiday episode, we re-visit conversations with six aviation industry executives about their approaches to sustainability and decarbonisation.Scandinavian Airlines CEO Anko van der Werff shares how regional environmental consciousness shapes their strategy, combining SAF adoption with electric and hydrogen partnerships. Their first electric flight is scheduled for 2028.Alaska Airlines SVP Diana Birkett Rakow details their 2040 net-zero target, with initiatives including employee bonus links to carbon targets and a partnership with Microsoft for synthetic fuel production.Boeing's Chief Sustainability Officer Brian Moran discusses their “SAF&” strategy and goal for 100% SAF-compatible aircraft by 2030. They're advancing electric propulsion through their Saab 340B retrofit project.Pittsburgh International Airport CEO Christina Cassotis reveals how they've operated completely off-grid for three years using a microgrid system, while developing multiple SAF pathways and an innovation testing ground.Truckee Tahoe Airport GM Robb Etnyre describes becoming the first airport to fully adopt SAF, achieving price parity with conventional jet fuel at $8 per gallon.IAG's Group head of Sustainability Jonathon Counsell outlines their commitment to 10% SAF fuel use by 2030, emphasizing the importance of managing cost transitions across the industry.If you LOVED this episode, you'll also love all the conversations we had through the year with dozens of industry executives, technology leaders and scientists. Check out the archive here. Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry's challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air'. Click here to learn more.Feel free to reach out via email to podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It's about time.Links & More:How SAS wants to pioneer sustainable aviation in Scandinavia Alaska Airlines' multi-faceted approach to achieving net zero by 2040How Boeing's ‘SAF&' strategy is laying the foundation for sustainable flyingWhy airports should become energy innovation hubs, not just transport hubsHow Truckee Tahoe Airport is transitioning towards its 100% SAF goalWhy IAG is focusing on the practicality of SAF more than emerging technologies This episode is brought to you by 4AIR. 4AIR is leading the way with the industry's first framework to address aviation's climate impact—offering clear, verifiable pathways to reduce and counteract aircraft emissions. For more information, please visit: https://www.4air.aero/

In this special holiday episode, we explore conversations with five industry leaders developing innovative sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production technologies.INERATEC CEO Tim Boeltken explains their modular e-fuel technology that converts green hydrogen and CO2 into carbon-neutral liquid fuels. They aim to transform 1 gigawatt of renewable energy into 125 million gallons of sustainable e-fuel by early 2030s.LanzaJet CEO Jimmy Samartzis discusses their alcohol-to-jet technology, which efficiently converts ethanol into 90% SAF and 10% renewable diesel. Their Georgia facility, LanzaJet Freedom Pines Fuels, is the world's first ethanol-to-SAF production plant.Twelve CEO Nicholas Flanders details their E-Jet® fuel technology that transforms CO2 and water into aviation fuel with up to 90% lower lifecycle emissions. Their partnership with Alaska Airlines and Microsoft aims to scale E-Jet® production.Arcadia eFuels CEO Amy Hebert outlines their strategy to scale commercial e-fuel production without pilot plants, targeting 100 million litres annually through fully electrified facilities that could reduce CO2 emissions by 250,000 tonnes.Nova Pangaea Technologies CEO Sarah Ellerby describes their REFNOVA® technology that converts agricultural and woody wastes into SAF precursors. Their Project Speedbird partnership with LanzaJet and British Airways has secured £9 million in UK government funding.If you LOVED this episode, you'll also love all the conversations we had through the year with dozens of industry executives, technology leaders and scientists. Check out the archive here. Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry's challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air'. Click here to learn more.Feel free to reach out via email to podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It's about time.Links & More:How INERATEC plans to turn 1 gigawatt of power into 125 million gallons of e-fuelLanzaJet plans to produce 1 billion gallons of SAF by 2030How Twelve's carbon transformation technology is making carbon-neutral fuels a realityAre eFuels the holy grail of sustainable aviation fuels?How Nova Pangaea Technologies plans to turn agricultural and forestry waste into SAF 

In this episode, we speak with Valérie Guénon, Vice President of Product Environment Policies at Safran Aircraft Engines. She shares insights into how the company aims to tackle its environmental challenges through innovative engine design and sustainable fuel integration.Guénon discusses Safran's comprehensive approach to aviation sustainability, and highlights:The RISE (Revolutionary Innovation for Sustainable Engines) program, developed in partnership with GE Aerospace that features an innovative open fan architecture that could significantly reduce fuel consumption by removing the heavy engine nacelle and optimising propulsive efficiency.Safran's commitment to environmental research, with the company dedicating 88% of its self-funded research to environmental performance improvements, covering areas like CO2 reduction, noise reduction, and local air pollution mitigation.Safran is actively working to ensure engine compatibility with 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), addressing challenges beyond just combustion.Through the Renewable Low Carbon Fuels European Alliance, Safran chairs the aviation chamber and helps coordinate industry-wide efforts to scale up SAF production and adoption.The complexities of hydrogen adoption in aviation, drawing from Safran's experience with rocket propulsion.Safran's electrification initiatives that focus on smaller aircraft through Safran Electrical & Power.Throughout the conversation, Guénon emphasises that while engine manufacturers can't control air traffic growth, they can significantly impact efficiency. Guénon also shares her pioneering experience as a woman in aerospace engineering, highlighting how both cultural changes and legislation have improved gender equality in the field.If you LOVED this episode, you'll also love the conversation we had with Graham Webb, Chief Sustainability Officer at Pratt and Whitney. Check it out here. Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry's challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air'. Click here to learn more.Feel free to reach out via email to podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It's about time.Links & More:Sustainability - SafranHow Safran is helping to develop sustainable fuels - Safran GE Aviation and Safran launch advanced technology demonstration programme for sustainable engines - ERA Safran invests €1bn to develop global MRO network for LEAP engine - Aerospace Manufacturing 

In this episode, we talk to Kennedy Ricci, President of 4AIR, who shares insights into how business aviation can accelerate sustainability initiatives that could benefit the entire industry. 4AIR helps private aviation stakeholders implement impactful sustainability programs, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and industry commitments through independent reviews. Ricci explains 4AIR's broad approach to aviation sustainability, that extends beyond traditional carbon offsetting.He discusses:The development of 4AIR's four-tier rating system for aviation sustainability, starting with carbon offsetting and progressing to more advanced solutions including SAF usage and investment in future technologies.Recent research on contrail reduction shows that adjusting just 50 flights out of nearly 17,000 could reduce the non-CO2 impact by about 50%. The study also found that 70% of contrail-producing flights could have avoided contrails by flying at different altitudes.The stark difference in contrail formation between US and European operations, with aircraft making contrails almost twice as frequently in Europe due to air traffic control (ATC) practices, highlighting the importance of ATC cooperation in sustainability efforts.Business aviation's outsized role in sustainable aviation fuel adoption, consuming about 10-15% of global SAF production despite representing only 2% of aviation fuel usage, effectively serving as an early adopter for the broader industry.The implementation of innovative tracking solutions through their Assure platform, which has documented over 15 million gallons of SAF and helped establish a more robust system for tracking sustainable fuel usage.If you LOVED this episode, you'll also love the conversation we had with Eloa Guillotin, Co-Founder & CEO of Beyond Aero. Check it out here.Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry's challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air'. Click here to learn more.Feel free to reach out via email to podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It's about time.Links & More:4AIR 4AIR launches Assure SAF registry to track and validate sustainable aviation fuel - Financial Post 4AIR awarded prestigious recognition by Environment+Energy - GlobeNewswire ‘Small changes to aircraft routings' could reduce environmental impact - AGN 4Air compliance services expands with 21 more environmental requirements - Aviation International News 

In this episode, we speak with Christina Cassotis, CEO of Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT), who shares her ambitious vision for transforming the airport into a sustainable aviation hub. Cassotis discusses Pittsburgh's unique position and innovative approach to aviation sustainability. She highlights several key initiatives:PIT has achieved a remarkable milestone as the world's first fully off-grid major airport. Through a public-private partnership, the airport commissioned a microgrid in 2021 that powers its entire operation. The airport is developing three SAF production pathways: alcohol-to-jet technology using ethanol, fugitive methane capture, and hydrothermal liquefaction converting organic waste to fuel.Their hydrogen strategy includes testing hydrogen-powered ground equipment like snowplows, developing distributed production technology, and establishing themselves as a regional hydrogen hub supporting both airport and public transportation needs.PIT leverages unique assets including its location above the Marcellus Shale natural gas deposit, existing fuel infrastructure with export capability, Carnegie Mellon University partnership, and the region's energy innovation legacy.Opening in 2025, their new LEED Gold terminal features rainwater capture systems, recycled construction materials, and a design optimised for origin and destination traffic, reflecting their evolution from a former US Airways hub.Throughout the conversation, Cassotis emphasises the importance of taking incremental steps toward sustainability targets, sharing knowledge across the industry, and maintaining a balance between environmental protection and operational efficiency. Her vision extends beyond Pittsburgh, aiming to create a model that other airports can learn from and adapt. If you LOVED this episode, you'll also love the conversation we had with Robb Etnyre, General Manager of Truckee Tahoe Airport. Check it out here. Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry's challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air'. Click here to learn more.Feel free to reach out via email to podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It's about time.Links & More:Pittsburgh Airport aims to be a ‘trailblazer' in SAF production - Aviation Week Network PIT Named Among World's Best in Environmental Sustainability - Blue Sky NewsMaking Pittsburgh a global leader in green aviation - Carnegie Mellon University KeyState, CNX advancing transformational hydrogen and sustainable aviation fuel hub at Pittsburgh International Airport - PR Newswire 

In this episode, we talk to Professor Robert Miller, Director of the Whittle Laboratory at the University of Cambridge, who shares why 2030 targets are crucial for the aviation industry's transition towards net zero.Miller is also the head of the Aviation Impact Accelerator (AIA), a collaboration between the Whittle Laboratory and the Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership. The AIA recently released the “Five Years to Chart a New Future for Aviation” report which outlined 4 key Sustainable Aviation Goals, which, if achieved in the next 5 years, can help aviation reach net-zero by 2050. Miller shares insights into the recently released report and highlights several key issues:The misconception of smooth technology transitions, emphasising that historical precedents show abrupt changes with usually one dominant solution emerging, similar to VHS vs Betamax or cars vs horses.Operation Blue Skies which seeks to address persistent contrails by setting up “Airspace-Scale Living Labs”.The introduction of bold efficiency measures that could halve fuel burn by 2050, including reducing aircraft life from 30 to 15 years, flying 15% slower, and better matching aircraft to route distances.The challenges of scaling Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) within global biomass limitations, with potential ticket price increases ranging from 30%-90% depending on production method.The opportunity for hydrogen adoption in long-haul aviation, with potential for 10-30% fleet penetration by 2050, focusing initially on the 50 largest hub airports that consume half of global jet fuel.The importance of launching moonshot technology demonstrations by 2030, including cryogenic hydrogen/methane fuels, synthetic biology, and hydrogen-electric propulsion.Throughout the conversation, Miller emphasises the urgency of immediate action. He stresses that while only 10% of the global population has flown, expanding access to air travel must be balanced with aggressive decarbonisation efforts.If you LOVED this episode, you'll also love the conversation we had with Dr Florian Allroggen, Executive Director, Aerospace Climate & Sustainability, and a Research Scientist in MIT's Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics, who shares the science behind contrails, their climate impact, and practical solutions for mitigation. Check it out here. Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry's challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air'. Click here to learn more.Feel free to reach out via email to podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It's about time.Links & More:Aviation Impact AcceleratorThe Whittle Laboratory  Five Years to Chart a New Future for Aviation - Aviation Impact Accelerator Cambridge report sets four goals to be implemented by 2030 for global aviation to reach Net Zero - GreenAir News 

In this episode, we talk to Anna Stukas, Vice President of Strategic Partnerships at 1PointFive, who shares insights into how direct air capture (DAC) technology works and its crucial role in aviation's journey to net zero. Stukas, who has been working in carbon capture since 2015, discusses her role in commercialising DAC technology and developing strategic partnerships to scale this critical climate solution.Stukas discusses:The fundamental role of DAC in climate action, explaining how it captures CO2 directly from the atmosphere through an engineered system that mimics natural processes but operates more efficiently and with a smaller land footprint than trees.The scalability of DAC technology, exemplified by the STRATOS facility in Texas which, once completed, will capture up to 500,000 tons of CO2 annually.The critical importance of industry partnerships, including Airbus's pre-purchase of 400,000 tons of carbon removal and subsequent agreements with airlines like easyJet, Air Canada, and Lufthansa; as well as Microsoft's landmark 500,000 metric tons purchase agreement.The secure storage of captured CO2 deep underground, where it mineralises into calcium carbonate over geological timescales.The integration with renewable energy infrastructure, with facilities like STRATOS being powered by adjacent solar installations, creating additional opportunities for clean energy development.The complementary relationship between DAC and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), with DAC addressing residual emissions while potentially serving as a future feedstock for SAF production.Throughout the conversation, Stukas emphasises that while DAC is not a “get-out-of-jail-free card”, it represents an essential tool in aviation's decarbonisation toolkit. If you LOVED this episode, you'll also love the conversation we had with Jane Ashton, Director of Sustainability at easyJet. Check it out here. Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry's challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air'. Click here to learn more.Feel free to reach out via email to podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It's about time.Links & More:1PointFiveEctor County DAC - STRATOS - 1PointFive Occidental's 1PointFive secures funding of up to $500 million from US DOE - Reuters 1PointFive announces agreement to sell 500,000 metric tons of direct air capture carbon removal credits to Microsoft - GlobeNewswire ANA and easyJet commit to buying carbon dioxide removal credits from 1PointFive's Texas DAC facility - GreenAir News 

In this episode, we talk to Dr Florian Allroggen, Executive Director, Aerospace Climate & Sustainability, and a Research Scientist in MIT's Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics, who shares insights into the science of contrails and their impact on aviation's climate footprint.Allroggen discusses his role, focusing on understanding aviation's environmental impact and developing solutions for a net-zero pathway. He highlights several key issues:The formation of contrails as ice clouds when aircraft exhaust meets cold atmospheric conditions, and their dual role in both warming and cooling the atmosphere.The comparable magnitude of contrail warming effects to CO2 emissions, with varying impacts depending on the timeframe considered – contrails having larger short-term effects while CO2's impact accumulates over centuries.The potential for contrail avoidance through flight path adjustments, particularly by changing aircraft altitude rather than horizontal routing, due to the “pancake-like” nature of contrail-forming regions.The development of real-time contrail detection technology using NASA satellite imagery and machine learning, currently being tested with Delta Air Lines.The challenges of implementing contrail avoidance strategies, including the need for air traffic control coordination and the balance between fuel efficiency and contrail reduction.The need for a holistic approach to aviation sustainability, addressing both CO2 and non-CO2 impacts while maintaining safety.Throughout the conversation, Allroggen advocates for practical experimentation and implementation of contrail mitigation strategies, while acknowledging the uncertainties and challenges involved. He emphasises the importance of making robust decisions despite uncertainties, drawing parallels with everyday decision-making under uncertain conditions.If you LOVED this episode, you'll also love the conversation we had with  Maxime Meijers and Nicolas Meijers, co-founders of Estuaire. Check it out here. Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry's challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air'. Click here to learn more.Feel free to reach out via email to podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It's about time.Links & More:Impacts of multi-layer overlap on contrail radiative forcing - DOAJClimate - MIT LAE   Delta to work with MIT to study impact of airplane contrails on climate - CEHS How rerouting planes to produce fewer contrails could help cool the planet - MIT Technology Review How Estuaire's data platform can help airlines and airports make better sustainability decisions - SimpliFlying 

In this episode, we talk to Karine Guenan, Vice President of ZEROe ecosystem at Airbus, who shares insights into Airbus's ambitious plans to bring hydrogen-powered commercial aircraft to market by 2035 and the unprecedented ecosystem development required to make this vision a reality.Guenan discusses:The technical challenges of developing hydrogen-powered aircraft, including the need for cryogenic storage at -253° C and specially designed insulated tanks, contrasting with traditional jet fuel storage in aircraft wings.Airbus's exploration of two potential technological platforms - fuel cell propulsion and direct hydrogen combustion - aimed at serving the 100-200 seat market with ranges of 1,000-2,000 nautical miles.The extensive ecosystem partnerships being built worldwide, including collaborations with airports (like Gatwick), energy suppliers (like Air Products), airlines (like easyJet), and lessors (like Avalon) to create the infrastructure needed for hydrogen-powered aviation.The advantages of hydrogen as a zero-emission fuel source when produced from renewable energy, including its potential to reduce both CO2 and non-CO2 emissions.The safety considerations around hydrogen aviation, emphasising that hydrogen is non-toxic and actually dissipates more quickly than conventional fuels in case of leakage.Throughout the conversation, Guenan emphasises that while the 2035 target for commercial entry into service is ambitious, it's achievable through unprecedented collaboration across the aviation industry and beyond. She notes that while hydrogen aircraft will have a marginal impact by 2050, they represent a crucial long-term solution for aviation's decarbonisation challenge.Looking to the future, Guenan advocates for a multi-pronged approach to aviation sustainability, combining immediate solutions like sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) with longer-term transformative technologies like hydrogen-powered aircraft.If you LOVED this episode, you'll also love the conversation we had with Jane Ashton, Director of Sustainability at easyJet. Check it out here. Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry's challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air'. Click here to learn more.Feel free to reach out via email to podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It's about time.Links & More:ZEROe - Airbus First ZEROe engine fuel cell successfully powers on - AGNAirbus partners with Avolon to explore future of hydrogen aviation - Fuel Cells WorksAirbus to begin hydrogen fuel feasibility studies with North American airports - Flight Global 

In this episode, we talk to Yann Cabaret, CEO of SITA FOR AIRCRAFT, the aircraft business arm of SITA Group. Cabaret shares how SITA's technology can help airlines meet their sustainability goals through better operational efficiency and compliance management. He also shares insights into SITA's digital platforms and solutions aimed at reducing aviation's environmental impact.Cabaret discusses:SITA EcoMission, a new platform that helps airlines manage environmental compliance while optimising costs, bringing together different departments – from flight operations to finance – for better collaboration.How SITA OptiFlight is helping airlines achieve up to 5% fuel savings during climb-out phase by analysing aircraft-specific data and providing recommendations to pilots.The future challenges of balancing multiple environmental factors, such as choosing between CO2 emissions and contrail avoidance, and how technology can help make these complex decisions manageable.The vital role of operational efficiency as one of the few immediate levers airlines can pull today to become more sustainable, rather than waiting for future technologies like hydrogen or electric aircraft.Throughout the conversation, Cabaret emphasises that while compliance and reporting are important, SITA's ultimate goal is to help airlines reduce their environmental impact through better data and decision-making tools. He notes that SITA's solutions can help reduce compliance costs by 3% while reducing staff requirements by 30%.Looking to the future, Cabaret expresses optimism about the future of aviation, citing developments in operational efficiency, sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), new engine technologies, and especially the influx of young talent who believe in making aviation more sustainable.If you LOVED this episode, you'll also love the conversation we had with  Sian Andrews, SESAR Environmental Lead at NATS. Check it out here. Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry's challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air'. Click here to learn more.Feel free to reach out via email to podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content visit green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It's about time.Links & More:SITA FOR AIRCRAFTSITA Eco Mission - SITA Now more than ever fuel efficiency crucial to ops - Aerospace Tech Review Bringing data science into the cockpit to reduce fuel burn and carbon emission - Aviation Week Network Why flight paths matter more than you think for climate change - SimpliFlying 

In this episode, we talk to Sian Andrews, SESAR Environmental Lead at NATS, UK's leading provider of air traffic control services. She shares insights into how air traffic management can significantly reduce aviation's environmental impact through innovative solutions and research projects.Andrews discusses:NATS' role in making aviation sustainable through improved air traffic management, including their targets to reach net zero emissions by 2035.The significant but often overlooked impact of contrails on climate change, explaining they can have warming effects comparable to CO2 emissions, particularly during nighttime operations.The CICONIA project, led by Airbus and involving NATS, which aims to develop operational solutions for contrail avoidance while balancing fuel efficiency and air traffic management constraints.The concept of “green route charging”, which aims to eliminate pricing incentives that can lead airlines to fly longer, less fuel-efficient routes to avoid high-cost airspace.The Digital European Sky initiative, which combines various SESAR solutions to create a more efficient and environmentally conscious air traffic management system for the future.Throughout the conversation, Andrews emphasises that while safety remains the absolute priority in air traffic control, environmental considerations have become increasingly important, with NATS being one of the few air navigation service providers regulated on environmental performance through their 3DI (three-dimensional insight) metric.Looking to the future, Andrews advocates for a balanced approach that considers both operational efficiency and environmental impact to shape the future of aviation.If you LOVED this episode, you'll also love the conversation we had with Maxime Meijers and Nicolas Meijers, co-founders of Estuaire, who share how their data platform can help airlines and airports make better sustainability decisions. Check it out here. Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry's challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air'. Click here to learn more.Feel free to reach out via email to podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It's about time.Links & More:NATSNATS and SESAR – working together to deliver a Single European Sky Leading the Way in Contrail Avoidance - NATSHow Estuaire's data platform can help airlines and airports make better sustainability decisions For October 2024, we're pleased to feature SITA as our exclusive Sponsor of the Month. SITA is a global IT provider for the air transport industry, helping airlines navigate complex environmental regulations. Discover how their Eco Mission tool can simplify compliance, reduce costs, and provide real-time insights to support your sustainability goals.

In this episode, we talk to Bertrand Piccard, renowned Swiss explorer, psychiatrist and clean technology pioneer. He shares insights into his ambitious Climate Impulse project that aims to set a historic precedent by flying a hydrogen aircraft around the world non-stop in 9 days.Piccard achieved global recognition for completing the first non-stop balloon flight around the world and for co-piloting Solar Impulse, the first solar-powered aircraft to circumnavigate the globe. As the founder and chairman of the Solar Impulse Foundation, Piccard continues to advocate for environmental solutions and push the boundaries of sustainable technology. Piccard discusses:The Climate Impulse project, aiming to fly around the world non-stop using liquid hydrogen, showcasing the potential of zero-emission aviation.The technical aspects of the hydrogen-powered aircraft, including the challenges of storing liquid hydrogen at extremely low temperatures and the efficiency of fuel cells.His vision for the future of sustainable aviation, emphasising the need for a shift towards more efficient technologies and practices beyond just hydrogen power.His perspective on the current state of aviation, including his stance on ticket pricing and the need for a more sustainable approach to air travel.The lessons learned from his previous projects, including Solar Impulse, and how these experiences inform his current endeavours.Throughout the conversation, Piccard emphasises the importance of pushing boundaries in technology and human capability. Looking to the future, he expresses optimism about the potential of hydrogen in aviation, while acknowledging the challenges of implementation and the need for a holistic approach to sustainability in the industry.If you LOVED this episode, you'll also love the conversation we had with John Pagano, CEO of Red Sea Global, who shares how the developer is spearheading a new model of eco-tourism on the west coast of Saudia Arabia. Check it out here. Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry's challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air'. Click here to learn more.Feel free to reach out via email to podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It's about time.Links & More:Climate ImpulseSwiss adventurer Bertrand Piccard announces nonstop, round-the-world hydrogen flight - GreenAir NewsThis could be the first hydrogen-powered aircraft to fly non-stop around the globe - CNBC For October 2024, we're pleased to feature SITA as our exclusive Sponsor of the Month. SITA is a global IT provider for the air transport industry, helping airlines navigate complex environmental regulations. Discover how their Eco Mission tool can simplify compliance, reduce costs, and provide real-time insights to support your sustainability goals.

In this episode, we talk to Lee Beck, Senior Director for Europe and the Middle East, and Thomas Walker, Transportation Technology Manager at Clean Air Task Force (CATF), who share insights into innovative solutions for decarbonising the aviation industry.Beck and Walker discuss CATF's role as a global climate organisation focused on overlooked solutions for decarbonisation and provide a forward-looking perspective on the future of sustainable aviation. They highlight several key issues:The potential of synthetic fuels to make up over 50% of aviation fuel by 2050, and the policy measures necessary to achieve this ambitious goal.The limitations of biofuels in meeting long-term aviation demand, and the need to explore alternative fuel sources.The promise and challenges of hydrogen-powered aircraft, particularly for regional flights, and the significant infrastructure changes required.The potential of ammonia as an aviation fuel, its advantages over hydrogen, and the hurdles to its adoption.The current limitations of electric aircraft due to battery energy density constraints, and their potential niche applications.The importance of carbon capture and storage in producing synthetic fuels and decarbonising the aviation industry.The need for an options-based approach to decarbonisation, maintaining multiple technological pathways to address the complex challenge of aviation emissions.Throughout the conversation, Beck and Walker advocate for a diverse portfolio of solutions and strong international collaboration to address aviation's environmental impact, while expressing cautious optimism about the sector's ability to achieve significant emissions reductions in the coming decades.If you LOVED this episode, you'll also love the conversation we had with Andrew Chen, Principal for Aviation Decarbonisation at RMI, who shares the RMI's multi-faceted approach to aviation decarbonisation. Check it out here. Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry's challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air'. Click here to learn more.Feel free to reach out via email to podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It's about time.Links & More:About Us – Clean Air Task Force Decarbonizing Aviation: Enabling Technologies for a Net-Zero Future - CATFDecarbonizing Aviation: Challenges and Opportunities for Emerging Fuels - CATF For October 2024, we're pleased to feature SITA as our exclusive Sponsor of the Month. SITA is a global IT provider for the air transport industry, helping airlines navigate complex environmental regulations. Discover how their Eco Mission tool can simplify compliance, reduce costs, and provide real-time insights to support your sustainability goals.

In this episode, we talk to Anko van der Werff, President & CEO of Scandinavian Airlines (SAS), who shares insights into the airline's ambitious sustainability initiatives and how they're shaped by the unique environmental consciousness of Scandinavia.SAS, a longstanding Scandinavian carrier, faces distinct challenges and opportunities in its sustainability journey due to the region's deep-rooted environmental awareness and geographical characteristics. Van der Werff discusses:The profound impact of Scandinavian environmental consciousness on SAS's sustainability strategy, which goes beyond compliance to integrate sustainability into all aspects of operations.The critical role of aviation in Scandinavia, serving as an essential connector for the region's dispersed population across large, elongated countries.SAS's three-pillar approach to achieve sustainable aviation: Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), electric aviation, and hydrogen technology.The airline's Conscious Traveler program, which educates and incentivises passengers to make sustainable choices, including the option to purchase SAF.The airline's bold move into electric aviation, including a partnership with Heart Aerospace and the sale of tickets for a fully electric flight scheduled for 2028.Throughout the conversation, van der Werff emphasises the delicate balance SAS must strike between maintaining essential air connectivity and leading in sustainability efforts. Looking to the future, he expresses optimism about technological advancements in electric and hydrogen aviation, while acknowledging the challenges of high costs and the need for industry-wide collaboration to scale up sustainable solutions.If you LOVED this episode, you'll also love the conversation we had with Anders Forslund, CEO of Heart Aerospace. Check it out here. Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry's challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air'. Click here to learn more.Feel free to reach out via email to podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It's about time.Links & More:EuroBonus conscious traveler - SASScandinavian Airline SAS taking bookings for first electric flight on ES-30 aircraft in 2028 - Aviation International News Restructured SAS formally joins SkyTeam after withdrawal from Star Alliance - Flight Global For October 2024, we're pleased to feature SITA as our exclusive Sponsor of the Month. SITA is a global IT provider for the air transport industry, helping airlines navigate complex environmental regulations. Discover how their Eco Mission tool can simplify compliance, reduce costs, and provide real-time insights to support your sustainability goals.

In this episode, we talk to Sarah Ellerby, CEO of Nova Pangaea Technologies (NPT), a UK-based cleantech company that has created a patented technology called the REFNOVA®, to enable SAF production from agricultural and forestry waste.Ellerby discusses:NPT's REFNOVA® technology, which processes non-food derived feedstocks such as sugarcane bagasse and wheat straw into SAF precursors.The dual-product output of the REFNOVA® process: sustainable sugars for SAF production and biochar for soil enhancement and carbon sequestration.Project Speedbird, a collaboration between Nova Pangaea Technologies, British Airways, and LanzaJet, which has secured £9 million in UK government funding.The challenges of scaling SAF production, including the need for significant investment and the importance of a blended finance approach involving both public and private sectors.Throughout the conversation, Ellerby emphasises the critical role of strategic partnerships and government support in advancing SAF production. She also shares NPT's efforts to de-risk their technology and business model to attract larger investments needed for commercial-scale production.Looking to the future, Ellerby outlines NPT's goals for scaling up production to meet the UK's SAF mandates, while acknowledging the challenges in funding and executing large-scale projects.If you LOVED this episode, you'll also love the conversation we had with Jimmy Samartzis, CEO of LanzaJet, who shares the company's journey in developing the world's first proven ATJ technology that converts ethanol into SAF and renewable diesel. Check it out here. Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry's challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air'. Click here to learn more.Feel free to reach out via email to podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It's about time.Links & More:Our biomass refinement process - Nova Pangaea Technologies Project Speedbird wins £9m UK funding for SAF production - Biofuels International MagazineNew investment in Nova Pangaea Technologies added to IAG's $865 million SAF commitment - GreenAir News LanzaJet plans to produce 1 billion gallons of SAF by 2030 - SimpliFlying For September 2024, we're featuring Estuaire as our exclusive Sponsor. Estuaire is an aviation and climate data platform that helps aviation brands make smarter decisions, especially when it comes to addressing non-CO2 impacts. Discover how they can support your sustainability goals

In this episode, we talk to Freshta Farzam, founder and CEO of LYTE Aviation, who shares the company's innovative approach to developing a 40-seater eVTOL aircraft for regional travel and cargo transport.Farzam discusses:The inspiration behind LYTE Aviation's focus on larger capacity eVTOLs, challenging the industry trend of smaller air taxis.The company's diverse eVTOL portfolio, which includes the 40-seat SkyBus, the SkyTruck for cargo, and a 19-seat version for business aviation.LYTE Aviation's target markets, including supplementing ferry routes and creating new regional air connections.Why LYTE uses hybrid propulsion systems, combining turboprop engines with electric motors powered by hydrogen fuel cells.The infrastructure requirements and partnerships necessary for high-capacity eVTOL operations, and how LYTE's eVTOLs can transform global transportation in the next 10-15 years.Farzam emphasises the potential of larger eVTOLs to disrupt regional transportation, and contribute to the aviation industry's sustainability journey. She discusses the challenges and opportunities in developing new air routes and collaborating with existing transportation providers. Looking to the future, Farzam envisions LYTE Aviation's aircraft becoming a new norm in regional travel, potentially running on 100% hydrogen fuel.If you LOVED this episode, you'll also love the conversation we had with Bonny Simi, Head of Air Operations and People at Joby Aviation, who shares how Joby has become one of the leading players in the eVTOL space. Check it out here. Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry's challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air'. Click here to learn more.Feel free to reach out via email to podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It's about time.Links & More:LYTE AviationFrom retro inspiration to futuristic mobility: LYTE Aviation's SkyBus - SimpliFlying  LYTE Aviation partners with Crisalion Mobility on last mile transport - Revolution.aero LYTE Aviation sets sights on mass transit eVTOLs - Aviation Week Network Joby wants to alleviate the pain and frustration of getting from home to your airline seat - SimpliFlying 

In this episode, we talk to Maxime Meijers and Nicolas Meijers, co-founders of Estuaire, who share insights into their innovative data platform that provides comprehensive climate impact assessments for the aviation industry.Maxime and Nicolas share:The development of Estuaire's data platform, which fuses various data sources to provide granular and exhaustive climate impact modelling for individual flights.The significant impact of non-CO2 emissions, particularly contrails, which can represent an additional 30% climate impact on top of CO2 emissions.The importance of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) in reducing both CO2 and non-CO2 emissions, and Estuaire's approach to optimising SAF allocation for maximum climate benefit.The surprising finding that only 2% of flights are responsible for 80% of aviation's contrail warming effect, and how Estuaire's technology helps identify these high-impact flights.The potential for airlines to achieve significant climate savings through small changes in flight operations, such as slight altitude adjustments to avoid contrail-prone areas.Throughout the conversation, Maxime and Nicolas emphasise the unique transparency of the aviation sector and how Estuaire leverages this data to drive actionable insights for airlines, airports, and other stakeholders in the aviation ecosystem. Looking to the future, they discuss their ambitious goal of having 10 major airlines successfully implement contrail mitigation programs within the next year, showcasing the potential for rapid progress in sustainable aviation practices.If you LOVED this episode, you'll also love the conversation we had with Alejandra Martín Frías, Head of Sustainability Research at FLIGHTKEYS, who shares insights into the company's research on contrail avoidance and its potential impact on aviation sustainability. Check it out here. Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry's challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air'. Click here to learn more.Feel free to reach out via email to podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It's about time.Links & More:EstuaireContrail Index - Estuaire ESTUAIRE raises €2.2M in seed round to reduce the climate impact of aviation - Safran How FLIGHTKEYS promises major climate gains at a minimal cost - SimpliFlying 

In this episode, we talk to Delphine Millot, Senior Vice President for Advocacy & Sustainability at Global Business Travel Association (GBTA), who shares insights into GBTA's initiatives to promote sustainability in business travel and the challenges faced by the industry.Millot also serves as the Managing Director of the GBTA Foundation, which serves as the charitable arm of GBTA, focusing on workforce development, women empowerment, and addressing climate challenges in the business travel sector.Millot discusses:The role of GBTA in developing global sustainable procurement criteria for business travel, covering various sectors including aviation, hotels, and ground transportation.The significant impact of business travel on corporate emissions, with some companies seeing up to 80% of their scope 3 emissions coming from business travel.The importance of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) in decarbonising aviation and GBTA's efforts to promote corporate investment in SAF certificates.Regional differences in sustainability efforts, with Europe leading the way due to cultural awareness, infrastructure, and regulatory pressures.The collaboration between travel managers and sustainability teams within companies to drive meaningful change in business travel practices.Throughout the conversation, Millot emphasises the need for a balanced approach to sustainability in business travel, acknowledging its importance while recognising the essential role of travel in global business. Looking to the future, she discusses GBTA's upcoming acceleration challenge for the global business travel industry, which aims to track and encourage progress in sustainable travel practices.If you LOVED this episode, you'll also love the conversation we had with Nora Lovell Marchant, Vice President of Global Sustainability at American Express Global Business Travel (Amex GBT). She discusses various initiatives such as a blockchain-powered SAF platform, an independently verified carbon offsetting programme and more. Check it out here. Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry's challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air'. Click here to learn more.Feel free to reach out via email to podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It's about time.Links & More:Global Business Travel Association Sustainability - GBTA   Sustainability Acceleration Challenge - GBTA How Amex GBT is building platforms for SAF and Carbon Offsets - SimpliFlying 

In this episode, we talk to Tim Boeltken, Founder and Managing Director at INERATEC, who shares insights into the innovative world of e-fuels and their potential to transform the aviation industry and beyond.INERATEC is at the forefront of e-fuel production, developing modular technology that converts green hydrogen and carbon dioxide into carbon-neutral liquid fuels, including sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).Boeltken discusses:The basics of e-fuel production, describing it as “liquefied electricity” and explaining the process of combining green hydrogen and CO2 to create various fuel fractions.Strategies to overcome the challenges of high production costs and input scarcity, including modular production units and strategic site selection.The construction of INERATEC's Pioneer Plant in Frankfurt, Germany, which will produce 2,500 tonnes of e-fuel annually and marks the company's transition from technology provider to fuel producer.The current state of e-fuel adoption across various industries, with aviation lagging behind maritime and road transportation despite its long-term potential.The importance of strategic partnerships in scaling e-fuel production, including collaborations with companies like Safran, Engie, and Synhelion.Throughout the conversation, Boeltken emphasises the transformative potential of e-fuels in decarbonising hard-to-abate sectors and the need for continued innovation and collaboration. Looking to the future, he expresses optimism about the scalability of e-fuel production and its role in achieving global sustainability goals, particularly in the aviation industry.If you LOVED this episode, you'll also love the conversation we had with Amy Hebert, Chair of the Board and CEO at Arcadia eFuels. Check it out here. Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry's challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air'. Click here to learn more.Feel free to reach out via email to podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It's about time.Links & More:Sustainable e-Fuels Startup INERATEC Raises $129 Million - ESG Today INERATEC and COPEC enter strategic partnership to spearhead e-Fuel availability in Chile - BNamericasSafran and Engie New Ventures invest in Ineratec, a German startup specializing in carbon-neutral synthetic fuels - SafranINERATEC and Clariant join forces for a cleaner future - Hydrocarbon EngineeringINERATEC and Zenith plan new e-fuels plant in port of Amsterdam - Offshore Energy 

In this episode, we talk to Billie Moore, Chief Executive at NZ Airports Association, who shares insights into New Zealand's distinctive approach to sustainable aviation and the challenges of operating in an isolated island nation.In essence, the NZ Airports Association serves as a central hub for coordination, advocacy, and knowledge sharing among New Zealand's airports, with a particular focus on navigating the challenges of sustainability and decarbonisation in the aviation sector.Moore discusses:The critical role of aviation in New Zealand, serving as an essential connection to the world and within the country, reshaping its geography and allowing New Zealanders to “live global lives”.New Zealand's roadmap to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050, including exploration of electric aircraft, green hydrogen, and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).The collaborative efforts between airports, airlines, and the government, exemplified by Air New Zealand's Flight NZ0 project and the involvement of various airports in testing new technologies.The potential of electric aircraft for domestic routes, with 60% of Air New Zealand's domestic flights being turboprops flying less than 350 kilometres.The challenges and opportunities in SAF adoption, including New Zealand's distance from major SAF markets and potential partnerships with Australia.Looking to the future, Moore expresses hope for continued international collaboration and information sharing, which will be crucial for small countries like New Zealand in addressing global aviation sustainability challenges.If you LOVED this episode, you'll also love the conversation we had with Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai International Airports. Check it out here. Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry's challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air'. Click here to learn more.Feel free to reach out via email to podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It's about time.Links & More:NZ Airports Association Air New Zealand's Flight NZ0, a decade-long journey towards carbon neutrality – Inside TourismHydrogen Consortium launched to promote green air travel in New Zealand - Airport Technology Air New Zealand receives 500,000-litre delivery of SAF - Biodiesel Magazine Air New Zealand is first major airline to scrap 2030 emissions target - The GuardianHow do you decarbonise a major airport? - SimpliFlying 

In this episode, we talk to Matt Finch, UK Policy Manager at Transport & Environment (T&E), who shares insights into the challenges and opportunities in sustainable aviation.Finch discusses T&E's role as Europe's leading advocate for clean transport and provides a critical perspective on current efforts to decarbonise the aviation industry. He highlights several key issues:The lack of fuel duty on aviation fuel, which Finch argues artificially suppresses the cost of air travel and hinders the transition to more sustainable alternatives.The UK's Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) mandate, its strengths and weaknesses, and the challenges in scaling up SAF production.The potential of alternative technologies such as hydrogen and electric aircraft, and the need for stronger government support to accelerate their development and adoption.The environmental impact of airport expansion and the need for more stringent conditions on growth.The importance of addressing non-CO2 impacts of aviation, which Finch says account for two-thirds of the sector's overall climate impact.Throughout the conversation, Finch advocates for more ambitious policies and actions to address aviation's environmental impact, while remaining cautiously optimistic about the potential for progress in the sector.If you LOVED this episode, you'll also love the conversation we had with Hiske Arts, Campaigner at Fossil Free Netherlands (Fossielvrij NL), who explains why climate activists don't buy the aviation industry's commitment to addressing climate concerns. Check it out here. Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry's challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air'. Click here to learn more.Feel free to reach out via email to podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It's about time.Links & More:Aviation - T&ERoadmap to climate neutral aviation in Europe - T&E  UK to implement SAF mandate beginning in 2025 - Biomass Magazine The current state of scientific understanding of the non-CO2 effects of aviation on climate - David Lee The ICCT's bitter but essential prescription for net zero emissions by 2050 - SimpliFlying ➡️ Can climate activists and the aviation industry ever get along? - SimpliFlying 

In this episode, we talk to Alanna James, Managing Director Sustainability Initiatives at Hawaiian Airlines, who shares insights into the airline's distinctive approach to sustainability and the challenges of operating in an island environment.Hawaiian Airlines, a 94-year-old company headquartered in Honolulu, faces unique sustainability challenges due to Hawaii's geographic isolation and vulnerability to climate change. James discusses:The airline's deep connection to Hawaii and how it informs their approach to sustainability, which goes beyond environmental concerns to include economic and cultural sustainability.The critical role of air travel in Hawaii, serving as an essential "highway system" for inter-island connectivity and supporting the state's tourism-based economy.Hawaiian Airlines' roadmap to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050, including fleet renewal, operational efficiencies, next-generation aircraft, and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).The airline's ambitious goal to use 10% SAF by 2030 and the strategies they're employing to achieve this, including partnerships with SAF suppliers and efforts to develop local SAF production in Hawaii.Exploration of innovative technologies like electric sea gliders for inter-island travel and the potential role of hydrogen-powered aircraft in the future.Throughout the conversation, James emphasises the delicate balance Hawaiian Airlines must strike between maintaining essential air connectivity and preserving Hawaii's natural beauty and resources. If you LOVED this episode, you'll also love the conversation we had with Diana Birkett Rakow, Senior Vice President of Public Affairs & Sustainability at Alaska Airlines, who shares how the airline is planning to achieve net zero emissions by 2040. Check it out here. Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry's challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air'. Click here to learn more.Feel free to reach out via email to podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It's about time.Links & More:Environmental Stewardship - Hawaiian Airlines Hawaii Renewable Fuels CoalitionHawaiian Airlines invests in Regent seagliders - ch-aviation Hawaiian Airlines Commits to New Milestones on Path to Net-Zero Carbon Emissions - Hawaiian Airlines Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines to Combine, Expanding Benefits and Choice for Travelers Throughout Hawai‘i and the West Coast Alaska Airlines' multi-faceted approach to achieving net zero by 2040 - SimpliFlying 

In this episode, we talk to Ricky Sandhu, Founder and Executive Chairman of Urban-Air Port, who shares insights into the company's groundbreaking vertiport technology and vision for the future of urban air mobility (AAM).Urban-Air Port is at the forefront of AAM infrastructure, with their main product Air-One being the world's first fully-operational and off-grid hub for electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. Sandhu discusses Urban-Air Port's mission to enable a new era of advanced air mobility through designing, developing, fabricating, and operating innovative airport infrastructure.Delving into the economic and environmental impacts, Sandhu highlights the potential for increased productivity and reduced carbon emissions through urban air mobility. He discusses Urban-Air Port's partnerships with major players like Supernal and LG Electronics.Sandhu also addresses the challenges and opportunities in vertiport development, including the need for public acceptance and regulatory approval. He shares his vision of urban airports becoming as ubiquitous as gas stations, facilitating a new era of urban transportation. Looking to the future, Sandhu discusses the potential for vertiports to integrate with existing transportation networks and their role in promoting sustainable and efficient urban mobility.If you LOVED this episode, you'll also love the conversation we had with Daniel Wiegand, Co-Founder & Chief Engineer for Innovation and Future Programmes at Lilium, who shares Lilium's vision to revolutionise regional air mobility by building the world's first electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) jet. Check it out here. Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry's challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air'. Click here to learn more. Feel free to reach out via email to podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It's about time.Links & More:Urban-Air Port Urban-Air Port joins forces with NACO, accelerating vertiport integration into airports globally. - Vertical MagLG Electronics and Urban-Air Port team up - Airports International Urban-Air Port Founder Touts Benefits Of ‘Vertical Airfield' - Aviation Week Network World-first electric Urban Air Port® secures UK government backing - Hyundai World's first airport for flying cars and drones opens in UK - World Economic Forum How the Lilium Jet will open up new frontiers for eVTOLs - SimpliFlying 

In this episode, we talk to Ed Mason, Founder & CEO of Jet Zero Australia, who shares insights into the company's ambitious projects to produce sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) at a commercial scale. Jet Zero Australia is an Australian bioenergy company that aims to develop the country's first Alcohol-to-Jet (ATJ) facility for SAF production, using surplus ethanol from agricultural and sugarcane byproducts. Mason discusses Jet Zero Australia's two upcoming projects: Project Ulysses and Project Mandala, which aim to establish Australia as a major player in the SAF market. Project Ulysses will use LanzaJet's ATJ technology, to convert bioethanol into SAF and renewable diesel. Mason provides insights into the strategic choice of Townsville as the location for Project Ulysses, citing factors such as renewable energy availability, proximity to feedstock, and supportive local infrastructure. He also discusses the challenges and opportunities in SAF distribution and the role of the book and claim system in expanding the reach of SAF benefits. Mason also highlights the critical role of partnerships in the SAF industry, with Jet Zero Australia collaborating with major players like Qantas, Airbus, Idemitsu and the Queensland Government. Delving into the economic impact of SAF production, Mason highlights the industry's potential for job creation and emphasises the need for continued innovation and collaboration to achieve sustainable aviation goals.If you LOVED this episode, you'll also love the conversation we had with Jimmy Samartzis, CEO of LanzaJet, who shares the company's journey in developing the world's first proven ATJ technology that converts ethanol into SAF and renewable diesel. Check it out here. Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry's challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air'. Click here to learn more.Feel free to reach out via email to podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It's about time.Links & More:Jet Zero Australia Project Ulysses - Jet Zero AustraliaLanzaJet and Jet Zero agree to develop Australia's first ethanol-to-SAF plant - GreenAir News  Idemitsu, Qantas and Airbus back Australia biofuel refiner with $25.5 million - The Straits Times LanzaJet plans to produce 1 billion gallons of SAF by 2030 - SimpliFlying 

In this episode, we talk to Alejandra Martín Frías, Head of Sustainability Research at FLIGHTKEYS, who shares insights into the company's research on contrail avoidance and its potential impact on aviation sustainability.Condensation trails, also known as contrails, are long, thin clouds that often form behind an aircraft in cold and humid conditions when water vapour freezes around small dust and soot particles from the engine. Although they look harmless, contrails are made up of small ice crystals that trap heat in the earth's atmosphere and contribute to global warming. Frías delves into the complexities of contrail formation and its impact on climate, highlighting that non-CO2 emissions from aviation may be as significant as CO2 emissions in terms of climate impact. She explains the challenges of implementing contrail avoidance strategies, including weather unpredictability, operational complexities, and the industry's hesitance to participate in non-CO2 emissions monitoring.Recently, FLIGHTKEYS was part of a study that simulated contrail avoidance for about 85,000 flights. The study, published in February 2024, analysed two weeks of American Airlines flights in June, and two weeks in January. Frías shares that the study demonstrated significant reductions in contrail energy forcing (up to 73%) with minimal increases in fuel consumption and overall costs (less than 0.11%!).If you LOVED this episode, you'll also love the conversation we had with Adam Durant, Founder & CEO of SATAVIA, who shares  the groundbreaking work being done in the field of contrail reduction and its implications for the environment. Check it out here. Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry's challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air'. Click here to learn more.Feel free to reach out via email to podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It's about time.Links & More:FLIGHTKEYS Feasibility of contrail avoidance in a commercial flight planning system: an operational analysis - IOPscience Airlines divide over new EU rules on monitoring and reporting of their non-CO2 emissions - GreenAir News SATAVIA wants to solve a majorly ignored aspect of aviation's climate impact - SimpliFlying 

In this episode, we talk to Brian Moran, Chief Sustainability Officer at Boeing, who shares the company's multifaceted approach to decarbonising the aviation industry, focusing on sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), innovative technologies, and the importance of regaining trust in the wake of its recent crisis.Moran discusses Boeing's Cascade model, an open-source dynamic data modelling tool developed in partnership with MIT, Cambridge, IATA, and NASA, which helps stakeholders make informed decisions about the relative impact of different decarbonisation strategies. He also delves into Boeing's role in advancing SAF, from de-risking the technology through test flights and research to committing to delivering 100% SAF-compatible aircraft by 2030.Further, Moran highlights Boeing's investments in future technologies, such as the electric propulsion flight demonstrator (EPFD) project with NASA and GE Aerospace, and the X-66 demonstrator aircraft featuring a transonic truss-braced wing. He also discusses the company's involvement in the eVTOL space through their wholly-owned subsidiary Wisk, and how the lessons learned from this venture can be applied to the larger Boeing ecosystem. Moran also acknowledges the challenges Boeing has faced in recent years and emphasises the interconnectedness of safety and sustainability. He views Boeing's current situation as an opportunity for open, transparent dialogue about the company's shortcomings and remedial actions.If you LOVED this episode, you'll also love the conversation we had with Sheila Remes, Boeing's VP of Environmental Sustainability, who shares how the airframer is collaborating with industry stakeholders to move aviation towards its 2050 net zero goal. Check it out here. Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry's challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air'. Click here to learn more.Feel free to reach out via email to podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It's about time.Links & More:Sustainability - Boeing At Boeing, it's a battle to win back airlines' trust - Times of IndiaBoeing makes its largest purchase of blended sustainable aviation fuel - Boeing Electric Skies: Boeing joins GE and NASA's hybrid electric flight project - GE Aerospace News Virgin Atlantic jet lands after maiden transatlantic flight on low-carbon fuel - Reuters How Boeing has been working on a net zero future for over a decade - SimpliFlying 

In this episode, we talk to Ali Warrington, Senior Campaigner at Possible, a UK-based climate charity that enables people to take practical action on climate change. Possible has been at the forefront of climate action and has been instrumental in lodging formal complaints against airlines like Virgin Atlantic and British Airways for their greenwashing claims. The charity, along with other climate groups has also taken the  UK government to court over its Jet Zero strategy.Warrington believes that the aviation industry's current approach to sustainability is dramatically insufficient. She points out the limitations of the current decarbonisation solutions – including sustainable aviation fuels (SAF), hydrogen, and electric aircraft – and expresses scepticism about their scalability and effectiveness. She also expresses concern about the enormity of resources, both natural and monetary, that would be needed to make these solutions a reality. Ultimately, Warrington states, demand reduction is the only pragmatic way to cut aviation's share of emissions.Warrington also points out the inequality in air travel in the UK – just 15% of people take 70% of flights annually, with half the population not taking any flights at all. She supports the idea of a frequent flyer levy, to progressively tax individuals on the number of flights they take. She also emphasises the need for a systemic change in global travel infrastructure, and advocates for a shift towards train travel or other low-carbon transportation options, whenever possible. If you LOVED this episode, you'll also love the conversation we had with Hiske Arts, Campaigner at Fossil Free Netherlands (Fossielvrij NL), who discusses the climate activists' scepticism about the aviation industry's commitment to addressing climate concerns. Check it out here. Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry's challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air'. Click here to learn more.Feel free to reach out via email to podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It's about time.Links & More:Possible - Inspiring climate actionOur formal complaint against airline greenwash - Possible Climate groups taking government to court over “dangerous” aviation strategy - Possible Net zero aviation fuels: resource requirements and environmental impacts - Royal Society Can climate activists and the aviation industry ever get along? - SimpliFlying 

In this episode, we talk to Akshat Rathi, award-winning senior climate reporter for Bloomberg News. Rathi is the host of Bloomberg's podcast Zero that explores the policies, tactics and clean technologies pushing for a zero emissions future. He is also the author of the book Climate Capitalism, which tracks the unlikely heroes driving the fight against climate change.Rathi argues that for years the aviation industry has sheltered behind the label of being “hard to decarbonise”, which is not only a misconception, but has also stalled the industry's progress towards net zero emissions. He advocates for correctly pricing flights to account for their true environmental cost, a move that could bring an end to “ridiculously” cheap flight tickets.Rathi also discusses the potential of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) in decarbonising aviation and the need to overcome cost barriers through policy support and corporate commitment. Further, he delves into the role of electric aviation in transforming short-haul travel and regional aviation.In Rathi's view, the aviation industry stands at a crossroads, and the choices made now will determine not just the future of flying, but our ability to meet global climate targets. As he puts it, “We have to start to think about those technologies, because we do need decarbonised solutions.”If you LOVED this episode you'll also love the conversation we had with Dan Rutherford, Senior Director of Research at the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT), who shares the latest developments, partnerships, and challenges in reducing aviation emissions and achieving net zero by 2050. Check it out here.Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry's challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air'. Click here to learn more.Feel free to reach out via email to podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It's about time.Links & More:Zero - BloombergThe Airline Industry's Biggest Climate Challenge: A Lack of Clean Fuel - Bloomberg ‘Magical thinking': hopes for sustainable jet fuel not realistic, report finds - The Guardian How to rethink tourism and aviation for a greener future - SimpliFlying

In this episode, we talk to Grace Vihenda, Senior Manager, Innovation and Sustainability at Kenya Airways, who shares the airline's efforts to promote sustainable aviation in Africa, a continent with abundant resources for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production but limited infrastructure and investment.In 2023, Kenya Airways became the first African airline to use SAF for an intercontinental long-haul flight. The flight was conducted as a part of SkyTeam's Sustainable Flight Challenge, despite the challenges posed by the lack of a SAF policy framework in the country and the need to purchase the fuel from overseas at a significantly higher cost. The flight has been instrumental in helping chart the course for supportive policy action and the need to set up local SAF production. Vihenda discusses Kenya Airways' plans to scale up local production, with testing and certification planned for 2024, and eventual commercialisation for broader use.Vihenda also elaborates on Kenya Airways' innovative sustainability initiatives, such as partnering with a startup to produce cleaner diesel from waste plastic, implementing 100% recycling of food waste during in-flight meal preparation, and developing upcycled products from aircraft parts. She also emphasises the importance of collaboration and knowledge-sharing among airlines to advance sustainability goals.If you LOVED this episode you'll also love the conversation we had with SkyTeam Alliance's CEO Patrick Roux who outlines the alliance's role in enabling airlines' net zero journey. Check it out here.Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry's challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air'. Click here to learn more.Feel free to reach out via email to podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It's about time.Links & More:Sustainability - Kenya AirwaysKenya Airways operates first flight from Africa using Eni's aviation biofuel - ESG News Kenya Airways wins top prize in two categories in the ‘Sustainable Flight Challenge' - Airspace Africa Why SkyTeam believes the world needs “conscious travel” - SimpliFlying 

In this episode, we talk to Jimmy Samartzis, CEO of LanzaJet, who shares the company's journey in developing the world's first proven alcohol-to-jet (ATJ) technology that converts ethanol into sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and renewable diesel. Samartzis discusses LanzaJet's ambitious target of producing 1 billion gallons of SAF by 2030. Elaborating on LanzaJet's highly efficient and capital-light ATJ technology, he explains how it can produce up to 90% of fuels as SAF and the remaining 10% as renewable diesel. The process is also adaptable to various feedstocks, including waste materials, allowing LanzaJet to leverage local, sustainable inputs, and cater to the needs and resources of different countries.Samartzis emphasises the importance of collaborations with airline investors and partners like British Airways and Southwest Airlines in driving the adoption of SAF. He also discusses the environmental benefits of LanzaJet's technology and SAF, which include the elimination of sulphur, reduction in particulate matter, and potentially lower contrail formation.If you LOVED this episode you'll also love the conversation we had with World Energy's President & CEO Gene Gebolys who delves into the intricacies and future of SAF. Check it out here.Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry's challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air'. Click here to learn more.Feel free to reach out via email to podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It's about time.Links & More:Sustainable Fuels - LanzaJetCleaner skies ahead? A glimmer of hope for airline industry's clean fuel challenge - The Economic TimesLanzaJet unveils world's first ethanol-to-sustainable jet fuel plant in Georgia - BloombergBritish Airways, Nova Pangaea, LanzaJet project wins UK funding - Biomass Magazine How World Energy is shaping the future of sustainable aviation fuel - SimpliFlying 

In our first-ever bilingual episode, we talk to Preeti Jain, Head of Net Zero Transition Program at the International Air Transport Association (IATA). Jain provides an in-depth look at the challenges and opportunities in scaling up sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) to help aviation achieve its goal of net zero emissions by 2050. The interview is presented in two parts: English followed by Hindi. Jain discusses the current SAF landscape, highlighting the stark mismatch between demand and supply. Emphasising the need for greater SAF production, she estimates that a 1000-fold increase is required by 2050, amounting to roughly 300 new SAF plants each year. This rapid scale-up, however, is hindered by several challenges: inconsistent policy support, high capital costs and under-developed feedstock supply chains.IATA's strategy for overcoming these challenges involves a multi-pronged approach focusing on feedstocks, technology development, policy support, and collaboration across stakeholders. Jain emphasises the need for policies that encourage SAF production and adoption, and commends the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act and California's Low Carbon Fuel Standard as good examples. She sees potential in leveraging existing refinery infrastructure for SAF production, and expects SAF's cost to decline over time as more facilities are deployed and technologies mature.Jain also discusses the potential for SAF to deliver benefits beyond emissions reductions, such as improved energy security and rural economic development, particularly in emerging economies with large agricultural sectors. She also emphasises the critical role of collaboration across the aviation industry, governments, and civil society to build a thriving SAF ecosystem.If you LOVED this episode you'll also love the conversation we had with IATA's SVP Sustainability & Chief Economist Marie Owens Thomsen. Check it out here.Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry's challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air'. Click here to learn more.Feel free to reach out via email to podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It's about time.Links & More:Our Commitment to Fly Net Zero by 2050 - IATA SAF Offtake Agreements - ICAO  SAF Deployment - IATA  Net Zero Roadmaps - IATA Domestic air passenger traffic likely touched 15.4 crore in 2023-24: Report - The Economic TimesHow IATA envisions merging economics and sustainability in aviation - SimpliFlying 

In this episode, we welcome back Dan Rutherford, Senior Director of Research at the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT), for his second appearance on the show. Rutherford shares his insights on the latest developments, partnerships, and challenges in reducing aviation emissions and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.Rutherford discusses ICCT's expanded collaborations with industry partners, governments, and non-governmental organisations to apply their research directly to various projects and initiatives aimed at reducing aviation emissions. He highlights their work with Google on the Travel Impact Model (TIM), which aims to provide consumers with accurate, precise, and transparent emissions estimates when booking flights.The conversation delves into the challenges of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, with Rutherford providing sobering projections and emphasises the critical role of sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs) in bridging the gap, given the long lifespan of aircraft and the slow development of alternative technologies like hydrogen.The discussion also touches on the concept of a frequent flyer levy as a potential progressive taxation method to fund the transition to net-zero emissions. Rutherford emphasises the importance of consumer awareness and action in driving change within the aviation industry. The conversation concludes with Rutherford highlighting the role of multi-stakeholder initiatives and partnerships between organisations like ICCT and airlines, manufacturers, and other industry players in driving the transition to a cleaner, more sustainable future for aviation.If you LOVED this episode you'll enjoy revisiting one of our earliest episodes – also with Dan – who sets the stage for understanding the future of sustainable aviation and the trajectory airlines and governments need to follow to get to net-zero emissions. Check it out here.Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry's challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air'. Click here to learn more.Feel free to reach out via email to podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It's about time.Links & More:About - International Council on Clean Transportation Vision 2050: A strategy to decarbonize the global transport sector by mid-century - ICCT The ICCT and Google establish new partnership on lower carbon travel search - ICCTTravel Impact Model API - Google for Developers Aviation climate finance using a global frequent flying levy - ICCTDan Rutherford on net-zero roadmaps and transitioning to sustainable technologies - SimpliFlying