Jet2.com, the UK’s third largest airline, has showcased its sustainability credentials to bosses from the aviation regulator.
Rob Bishton, chief executive at the UK Civil Aviation Authority, met senior leaders from the leisure airline at its Manchester base, alongside the regulator’s newly appointed group director for consumers and markets, Selina Chadha.
Jet2.com demonstrated some of its sustainability initiatives, including work to reduce its airside carbon footprint, through the introduction of all-electric crew buses and ground handling equipment.
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More than 50% of Jet2.com’s owned ground handling equipment in the UK has now converted to an electric fuel supply.
Bishton noted not only the environmental improvements but also how changes are enhancing the passenger experience.
The visit came as the regulator prepares to consult with the industry on enhancing its environmental reporting capabilities and performance through its Aviation Environmental Review, as well as publish findings and next steps on its Consumer Environmental Information consultation.
Steve Heapy, chief executive at Jet2.com, said: “We are proud of the work that we have done, and continue to do, to address our climate impact.
“This includes investing in new and more fuel-efficient aircraft, such as our order of 146 Airbus A321 NEO aircraft, which are over 20% more fuel efficient than older aircraft.
“We have also invested in a Sustainable Aviation Fuel production plant here in the UK.
“Additionally, we have also replaced millions of single use plastics from onboard our aircraft and met our carbon intensity reduction targets to date.”
Bishton added: “Our mission is to protect people and enable aerospace so it’s important as the regulator to see first-hand the proactive steps the industry is taking to improve sustainability within the aviation sector.
“We recognise the need for transparency across industry on its sustainability efforts, which is why we’re working to ensure that passengers receive accurate and accessible environmental information, as well as consulting on enhancing industry’s reporting capabilities.
“Working together we can drive meaningful change towards a more sustainable future for aviation.”
Pictured from left: Reiner Krammer, CAA head of corporate finance and risk; Steve Heapy, chief executive at Jet2; Rob Bishton, CAA chief executive; Selina Chadha, CAA group director for consumers and markets; and David Neill, corporate affairs and sustainability director, Jet2.