Adding Fuel-efficient Airplanes Aids Net-zero | Mirchandani

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The Chairman of global aviation major Sky One, also hopes that India will maintain its leadership in the aviation sector by adopting more sustainable practices

Global aerospace major Boeing has already announced that India is one of its key markets, operating a range of Boeing platforms across both defence and commercial sectors. Several milestones mark the Boeing-India relationship, including India being the first international customer for the P-8 aircraft, the largest international operator of C-17s outside the US, and the first to integrate a U S weapon on an Indian fighter with the Harpoon missile.

In the commercial aviation sector, Boeing announced in February that it aims to deliver an average of two aircraft per month through 2024-25 to fulfil the substantial orders placed by Indian airlines. These deliveries include the next-generation 737, 737 MAX, 757, 777 and 787 Dreamliner, all designed to offer an enhanced flying experience for Indian passengers.

Similarly, Airbus has received significant orders, with Air India alone placing a massive order for 350 aircraft, including 40 A350s and 210 A320 ...
... Family aircraft.

Industry experts believe these expansion plans will not only support India’s rapid growth in the civil aviation sector but also play a crucial role in achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, as airlines incorporate more fuel-efficient aircraft into their fleets.

“Adding more fuel-efficient aircraft, such as the 737 MAX and 787 Dreamliner, aligns with India’s strategic plans to achieve net-zero emissions in the long run. Modern aircraft consume less fuel, produce fewer emissions, and operate more quietly than their predecessors. For instance, the 737 MAX is expected to deliver a 14 per cent reduction in fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions per seat compared to previous models. Similarly, the 787 Dreamliner, as per the company, with its advanced aerodynamics, lightweight composite materials, and efficient engines, contributes to a 20-25 per cent reduction in fuel use and emissions,” says Jaideep Mirchandani, Group Chairman of Sky One.

According to the Ministry of Civil Aviation’s data, annual air passenger traffic in India has surpassed 350 million, making it the third-largest aviation market globally. Over the past decade, domestic air passenger traffic has grown at an annual rate of 10-12 per cent, while the number of airports has more than doubled to 159. The government also plans to develop 50 more airports in the next five years.

“Focusing on sustainability by introducing more fuel-efficient aircraft, investing in research and development for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and promoting renewable energy at airports can help ease the pressure on the government to address the environmental impact of rising demand,” adds Mr Mirchandani.

He also praised the key steps taken by the Ministry of Civil Aviation, which mandated that airport operators map carbon emissions and work toward achieving carbon neutrality in a phased manner.

“According to the Airports Authority of India (AAI), efforts to promote green energy adoption include installing solar power plants at several airports. Moreover, some airports have begun procuring green energy from the open market. A total of 73 airports have already transitioned to 100 per cent green energy usage, a positive step for India as it moves toward sustainability in civil aviation, which is essential for a sustainable future,” concludes Mr Mirchandani.
Source: Repower India