SAS polar flight achieves 20% CO2 reduction
SAS has achieved a significant milestone in sustainable aviation with a polar route flight from Copenhagen to Los Angeles, cutting CO₂ emissions per passenger by nearly 20%.
The journey, part of The Aviation Challenge initiative, showcased how innovative planning can lower aviation’s environmental impact.
By optimising the distribution of passenger and cargo loads, SAS minimised fuel burn for the 285 passengers.
Collaboration with air traffic control allowed real-time adjustments to cruising altitude and flight paths, saving 250kg of fuel. On the ground, efficient taxiing reduced consumption by an additional 100kg.
A key element was the use of 32 tonnes of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), accounting for 40% of the flight’s total fuel, significantly curbing emissions.
SAS acknowledged challenges in scaling these practices, including air traffic constraints, SAF availability, and operational variability.
Ann-Sofie Hörlin, head of sustainability at SAS, commented: “Achieving nearly a 20 percent reduction in CO₂ emissions is a milestone, and we’re committed to taking these insights across our operations.
“The Aviation Challenge has allowed us to test new approaches, collaborate with industry partners, and pave the way for a more sustainable aviation future. This is an important step on our journey to reduce our environmental footprint.”
