A move to alternative fuel sources is undoubtedly where the aviation industry will be able to make the largest and most long-lasting inroad into decarbonising its operations, but it is not the only area where energy efficiencies can be made. Research and innovation is showing how emissions savings, albeit smaller, can be made in the shorter term by introducing new technologies and procedures into air traffic management (ATM).

The SESAR 3 Joint Undertaking is looking at every phase of the flight and airspace use, and developing technologies to reduce fuel burn and emissions. Much of the focus is on greener taxiing of aircraft, fuel and climate-optimised trajectories, and more energy-efficient approaches and landings at airports.

Of the 127 solutions delivered so far by the SESAR 3 JU, 100 have positive effects on the environment and more solutions are in the pipeline. The estimation is that the mature SESAR 1 and SESAR 2020 solutions can already enable a reduction of 4% in CO2 emissions

Discover 10 ways the SESAR 3 JU is making aviation more sustainable!