LFV and SAS test wide scale green approaches

A green approach simply involves an aircraft descending continuously to the airport using almost no engine thrust thus reducing fuel requirements, emissions and noise. This technique was first implemented on a small scale at Stockholm-Arlanda airport in 2006 and has since been refined and developed. Every green approach reduces carbon dioxide emissions by at least 150 kg. The airline SAS, which is responsible for about 40% of all traffic at Arlanda, aims at reducing its own emissions of carbon dioxide by 20% by the year 2020. -This goal is achievable through developing, for example, our aircraft fleet, improving airspace infrastructure and incorporating the next generation of sustainable fuels. The organisation will also adopt other operational activities such as green approaches and introduce competitive neutral financial directives including emission trading rights, says Niels Eirik Nertun, SAS Groups Head of Environment. LFV, whose personnel direct all air traffic within Swedish airspace, has an environmental goal that by 2012 eight out of ten approaching aircraft will be offered the option of green approaches. -We are also working continuously to straighten out flight routes. Since last spring we are able to offer airlines the straightest route possible over northern Sweden which, when fully implemented by 2011, is expected to reduce annual emissions of carbon dioxide by 17,000 tonnes, says Per Fröberg, Information Officer at LFV. The green approaches technique has attracted much international interest and is well in line with the trade organisation, IATAs goal of annual engine efficiency improvements of 1.5% by the year 2020 and thereafter traffic growth without equivalent increase in emissions. For further information please contact SAS presservice +46-08-797 29 44 or LFVs presservice +46-8-797 87 77.