KLM’s Efforts for Sustainable Aviation

Climate change and global warming present challenges that require swift and decisive action. As we confront them, it is important to recognize the various sources of pollution. Civil aviation, for example, contributes to overall carbon dioxide pollution by two to three percent. Without serious changes, this share could rise to as much as 22 percent by 2050. There must be a way to reconcile humanity’s natural desire to travel with reducing aviation’s impact on climate change.

Since the main cause of pollution in the aviation industry is the use of fossil fuels, the key solution lies in reducing their use and transitioning to sustainable alternative fuels. In fact, this is exactly what the world’s oldest airline still operating under its original name, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, is doing. KLM has been a leader in the aviation industry for many years when it comes to sustainability. Instead of developing a separate strategy for sustainable operations, the company places sustainability at the core of its business strategy. This approach allows it to integrate environmental practices into all aspects of its operations, thereby actively contributing to reducing its environmental impact.

IN FOCUS:

• Sustainable Logistics Real Estate
• Reliable Solution – Solar Energy
• Charging Infrastructure as the Foundation of E-Mobility

How KLM is trying to reduce its carbon footprint and climate impact

• FLEET RENEWAL, as the newest generation of aircraft consumes less fuel and, therefore, emits fewer harmful gases. The airline’s goal is to reduce its relative carbon dioxide emissions by 30 percent by 2030, and fleet renewal will enable it to achieve 12 percent of that target. This is why KLM is introducing new Airbus A320/321Neo aircraft for medium-haul routes, as these planes reduce emissions per passenger kilometer by 20 percent compared to the aircraft they are replacing. Additionally, KLM is introducing Airbus A350F aircraft to its cargo fleet, which will reduce carbon dioxide emissions from cargo flights by 40 percent on an absolute basis.
• OPERATIONAL MEASURES, such as route optimization, weight reduction, and fuel efficiency improvements, can contribute two percent towards achieving the projected goal for 2030.

  

• PURCHASING AND USING SUSTAINABLE AVIATION FUEL (SAF). The most important factor for reducing aviation’s climate impact is better fuel: sustainable aviation fuel or SAF, as its use can reduce carbon dioxide emissions by up to 75 percent compared to fossil fuels. KLM’s ambition is to use 10 percent SAF on its flights by 2030, and through purchases and various partnerships with SAF producers, the company has already secured the necessary amount of fuel to be halfway toward achieving this ambition.

How can you, as a passenger, participate in the fight for more sustainable aviation

It’s simple – the next time you pack your suitcase, consider whether you really need all the items you’re taking. Also, when booking a flight, you have the option to voluntarily purchase an additional amount of sustainable fuel. Your contribution is calculated based on several factors that affect the carbon dioxide emissions of your flight, such as aircraft type, distance, and load factor. Today, KLM uses one percent sustainable aviation fuel on all flights departing from Amsterdam. It’s a start, but with your help as a passenger, it can do even more. Every small step contributes to the larger goal of preserving our planet.

KLM