How can Amadeus’ new technology help airlines reach 2050 sustainability goals?

April 2, 2024

4 Min read

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Olivier Girault

Head of Sustainability Solutions, ESG Office

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In 2021, IATA committed to Fly Net Zero, an ambition on the part of airlines to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050. As this deadline approaches, carriers are under pressure to address environmental concerns and adopt increasingly sustainable practices.

Investments in carbon offsetting, sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and new technology to streamline operations are thus top priorities for airlines as they work towards this target.

Amadeus recently surveyed 90 senior sustainability decision makers in airlines across nine markets, with findings highlighting the areas of focus across Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) for the sector and exploring what is required in order to meet sustainability goals. 

Our research revealed the increased prioritization and investment in ESG for airlines. Over half (54%) of respondents said they plan to invest more in ESG initiatives in 2024 than they did in 2022, while over a third (34%) plan to spend the same. Overall, airlines are positive about achieving their targets within the timeframeset by IATA . 59% of airlines already have a step-by-step plan in place and 31% plan to implement one.

However, top challenges for airlines include supply chain disruption, overestimation of the timings and the need for further collaboration across the industry.

Let’s explore what this research revealed in a little more detail.

What role can technology play?

It is clear from our research that technology is seen by airline ESG decision-makers as having the potential to help the industry meet sustainability targets. Technology is a vital tool to help unlock the potential of more sustainable travel through giving travelers more choice on sustainable travel options and enabling industry collaboration.

For airlines, virtual or augmented reality (37%) and Generative Artificial Intelligence (Gen AI) interfaces (36%) are cited as technologies that could have the biggest impact on accelerating the achievement of environmental objectives. 47% also believe technology will improve access to travel through integrated accessibility technology.

When investing, moving towards decarbonization and reducing environmental impact are key focus areas for airlines, with operational efficiency improvements (54%), development of new aircraft technology (48%) and improvements to existing aircraft technology (44%) emerging as the top three priorities for airlines.

How can we help?

At Amadeus, we are dedicated to developing technology solutions that empower our customers to operate more sustainably, while enhancing their overall efficiency and productivity.

Our technology can make a significant impact in promoting carbon offsetting solutions. By providing detailed data on carbon emissions, we enable airlines to gain valuable insights into the environmental impact of their operations.

Operational efficiency is another area where our solutions can drive sustainability. The AmadeusAltéa Departure Control-Flight Management system allows airlines to define each aircraft’s optimal load, leading to cost savings and increased productivity. With features such as ground handling management and streamlined staff scheduling, airlines can optimize their operations while minimizing environmental impacts.

Moreover, we recognize the potential of emerging technologies like virtual or augmented reality and Generative AI interfaces in accelerating achievement of environmental objectives.

When it comes to sustainable aviation fuel (SAF),we have partnered with CAPHENIA , a future producer of synthesis gas, the feedstock of SAF. This partnership underscores our commitment to supporting a transition towards a more sustainable travel industry. Its innovative approach to SAF production offers a more affordable and scalable solution, with significant reductions in CO2 emissions compared to conventional aviation fuel.

One Amadeus partner,Volantio ,offers a practical solution to help mitigate the environmental impact of travel. By enabling airlines to optimize capacity through a private resale marketplace, Volantio helps carriers fly more passengers without flying more aircraft, optimizing capacity and revenue and reducing the need for additional flights. This not only improves the bottom line, but also rationalizes CO2 emissions per passenger flown.

As we continue to innovate and collaborate with industry partners, we remain steadfast in our commitment to supporting airlines in achieving their sustainability goals. Through technology-driven solutions and strategic partnerships, we empower our customers to embrace sustainable practices and pave the way for a more environmentally responsible future in aviation.

Looking ahead

Investment in ESG initiatives will only continue to intensify as the travel industry approaches 2050. Globally, the industry is moving from a period of intention to action, delivering on commitments such as Fly Net Zero.

By understanding the sentiment of ESG decision-makers in airlines today, we can better plan for the future. What is clear from our research is that airlines overall are feeling optimistic about the changes that can be implemented to help reach their objectives. Through the intelligent application of technology and further collaboration and transparency across the industry, we can overcome some of the challenges faced today.

In a world where travel is an integral part of our lives, it's crucial to recognize that our choices impact the environment, communities, and destinations we visit – and that impact can also be a force for good.

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