Episodios
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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 [email protected]. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.
Links & More:
LYTE Aviation
From 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
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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 [email protected]. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.
Links & More:
Estuaire
Contrail 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
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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 [email protected]. 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
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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 [email protected]. 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 - BNamericas
Safran and Engie New Ventures invest in Ineratec, a German startup specializing in carbon-neutral synthetic fuels - Safran
INERATEC and Clariant join forces for a cleaner future - Hydrocarbon Engineering
INERATEC and Zenith plan new e-fuels plant in port of Amsterdam - Offshore Energy
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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 [email protected]. 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 Tourism
Hydrogen 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 Guardian
How do you decarbonise a major airport? - SimpliFlying
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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 [email protected]. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.
Links & More:
Aviation - T&E
Roadmap 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
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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 [email protected]. 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 Coalition
Hawaiian 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 [email protected]. 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 Mag
LG 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 [email protected]. 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 Australia
LanzaJet 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
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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 [email protected]. 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
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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 [email protected]. 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 India
Boeing 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 [email protected]. 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 action
Our 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
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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 [email protected]. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.
Links & More:
Zero - Bloomberg
The 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
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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.
As a side note, AviaDev Africa Conference, a crucial platform for improving air travel connections across Africa, is taking place from June 19-21, 2024 in Windhoek, Namibia. Learn more about AviaDev here.
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 [email protected]. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.
Links & More:
Sustainability - Kenya Airways
Kenya 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 [email protected]. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.
Links & More:
Sustainable Fuels - LanzaJet
Cleaner skies ahead? A glimmer of hope for airline industry’s clean fuel challenge - The Economic Times
LanzaJet unveils world’s first ethanol-to-sustainable jet fuel plant in Georgia - Bloomberg
British Airways, Nova Pangaea, LanzaJet project wins UK funding - Biomass Magazine
How World Energy is shaping the future of sustainable aviation fuel - SimpliFlying
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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 [email protected]. 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 Times
How IATA envisions merging economics and sustainability in aviation - SimpliFlying
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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 [email protected]. 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 - ICCT
Travel Impact Model API - Google for Developers
Aviation climate finance using a global frequent flying levy - ICCT
Dan Rutherford on net-zero roadmaps and transitioning to sustainable technologies - SimpliFlying
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In this episode, we talk to Diana Birkett Rakow, Senior Vice President of Public Affairs & Sustainability at Alaska Airlines, who shares the airline’s ambitious goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2040.
To reach the 2040 goal, Alaska Airlines has developed a comprehensive five-part path. The plan includes focusing on operational efficiency, fleet modernisation, sustainable aviation fuels (SAF), new propulsion technologies, and the use of carbon credits as a last resort.
Rakow discusses the importance of employee and customer engagement in advancing the airline’s sustainability goals. She shares the airline’s unique bonus program that ties 10% of every employee’s annual bonus to achieving carbon intensity targets. Rakow also discusses the airline’s efforts to engage customers in sustainability initiatives by enabling the purchase of nature-based offsets and SAF credits, and offering loyalty rewards.
Rakow emphasises the significance of collaborations with companies like Microsoft and Twelve in developing and utilising SAF. She also delves into the airline’s investments in future technologies, such as their partnership with ZeroAvia to develop hydrogen-electric powertrains for regional aircraft, and the role of the airline’s venture investment arm, Alaska Star Ventures, in identifying and supporting innovations that accelerate the path to net zero emissions.
Please note: Alaska Airlines established its headquarters in Seattle in the early 1960s. The decade was misstated in the episode.
If you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversation we had with Delta Air Lines’ Chief Sustainability Officer Amelia DeLuca, 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 [email protected]. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.
Links & More:
ESG Environmental Social Governance - Alaska Airlines
Flying with purpose: Alaska sets new climate goals, including net-zero carbon emissions by 2040 - Alaska Airlines
Alaska Airlines, Twelve & Microsoft collaborate to use Sustainable Aviation Fuel produced from captured CO2 - ESG Today
Alaska Airlines, ZeroAvia to develop world’s largest zero-emission aircraft - Flight Global
Delta’s sustainability push is powered by a surprising customer insight
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In this episode, we talk to Daniel Rosen Jacobson, co-founder, co-CEO and Chief Business Officer of Elysian Aircraft, a startup that is developing a clean-sheet 90-seater battery electric aircraft.
Jacobson discusses Elysian’s unique approach to electric aviation, which focuses on a larger aircraft capable of carrying passengers over distances of about 800 km – longer than most current electric aircraft concepts. By targeting the busy short-haul market with a plane that can operate at costs competitive with conventional jets, Elysian aims to make a significant impact on the sustainability of regional air travel.
Jacobson also delves into the technical aspects of Elysian’s E9x aircraft design, which features a large wing with integrated batteries, and folding wingtips for airport compatibility. He also touches upon the challenges of certifying such a novel aircraft and the importance of collaborating with regulators and industry partners.
If you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversation we had with Heart Aerospace’s CEO Anders Forslund, who discusses how regional electric air travel can transform the industry while addressing the key sustainability challenges. 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 [email protected]. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.
Links & More:
Elysian Aircraft
Start-up Elysian reveals first 90 passenger battery-electric aircraft - Airport Technology
Elysian unveils advisory board drawn from across the ‘aviation ecosystem’ - Flight Global
Electric aircraft may have more potential than we thought - Bloomberg
Why Heart Aerospace’s electric aircraft is a gamechanger - SimpliFlying
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In this episode, we talk to three key members of Harbour Air, North America’s largest seaplane airline. Harbour Air’s CEO Bert Van Der Stege, Engineering and Quality Manager Erika Holtz, and Head of Digital and Customer Experience Suzanne Bremski discuss the airline’s vision for the future of electric aviation.
Harbour Air has a strong track record of prioritising sustainability, being the first airline to introduce carbon offsetting in 2007. The airline was also the first to operate an electric plane in 2019 with its e-plane initiative, and has committed to build the world’s first all-electric commercial fleet. Harbour Air’s unique operating conditions, including short flight times and low altitudes, make it well-suited for the transition to an all-electric airline.
The conversation also delves into Harbour Air’s shift from carbon offsetting to insetting, which involves taking actions or making investments within the airline’s operations, production or value chain for long-term, sustainable mitigation or avoidance of emissions. The interviewees also discuss the positive customer response to Harbour Air’s electric aviation initiatives, the current state of battery technology, and the importance of collaborations and partnerships in advancing sustainable aviation.
If you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversation we had with Harbour Air’s former CEO, Greg McDougall, who discusses the airline’s strong resolve to be an early adopter of disruptive technologies. 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 [email protected]. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.
Links & More:
Harbour Air
Moving past carbon neutral - Harbour Air
Carbon insetting vs offsetting - World Economic Forum
Harbour Air Delays “eBeaver” Service Entry - Airways
How Harbour Air is revolutionising aviation with their electric aircraft technology - SimpliFlying
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