Fri, Nov 14, 2008
11 Fuel Reduction Initiatives Create Substantial Carbon
Emissions Savings
United Airlines will become the
first US carrier to demonstrate how next-generation technologies
could save more than two thousand gallons of fuel and cut up to
55,000 pounds of carbon emissions on a single, trans-Pacific
flight.
As part of the Asia and South Pacific Initiative to Reduce
Emissions (ASPIRE), United flight 870 will fly from Sydney to San
Francisco on November 14, using up to the minute fuel data,
priority takeoff clearance, the opening up of restricted airspace,
and new arrival procedures -- all of which are possible with new
technology -- to generate significant fuel and emissions savings.
Within minutes of landing, United will calculate and publish the
actual savings realized on this flight.
"California leads the nation in protecting the environment and
fighting climate change so it's fitting that United Airlines' first
flight as part its new initiative to reduce emissions is landing
here in our great state," said Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger.
"This exciting new technology will generate significant fuel and
greenhouse gas emissions savings and shows the world how innovation
can help reduce our carbon footprint."
Prior to departure, United will evaluate flight data and will
file a preferred route that is most efficient for weather
conditions. After reaching cruising altitude, United Captain Tom
Spratt may alter his flight path, which is usually not possible
with today's technology, to take advantage of updated weather
conditions. Ninety minutes from San Francisco, Captain Spratt will
request a special arrival procedure developed by United and Boeing
that will generate additional fuel savings with a smooth,
continuous descent rather than the traditional step-down
approach.
"Next-generation technology and modernization of our air traffic
control system could save billions of pounds of carbon emissions
every year, and United is pleased to partner with the FAA and
provide important data from ASPIRE to demonstrate these savings,"
says Pete McDonald, Chief Administrative Officer -- United
Airlines. "New technology will also improve air travel for millions
of consumers by reducing delays and ensuring a more consistent
travel experience."
Data from the flight will be analyzed by NASA and the FAA in its
ongoing effort to accelerate the development and implementation of
new operational ground systems and pilot procedures to reduce the
environmental footprint for all phases of flight.
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