7 Tips for Choosing an Airline with a Lower Carbon Footprint
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Choosing an airline with a lower carbon footprint matters more than ever as aviation contributes about 2 % of global CO₂ emissions each year. In 2019 alone, commercial aviation emitted around 940 million tonnes of CO₂, and demand for flights is expected to rise in the coming years.
Picking greener airlines is one way travellers can cut their personal impact while also supporting companies that are investing in sustainable aviation.
Why choosing an airline with a lower carbon footprint makes sense
Airlines that fly newer, fuel-efficient aircraft burn less fuel per seat.
Regulatory pressure around emissions is growing globally.
Travellers who choose airlines with transparent climate goals tend to reward them with loyalty.
Businesses using greener airlines reduce their travel-related emissions (Scope 3) and improve ESG performance.
1. Check fleet age and aircraft fuel efficiency
Older aircraft burn more fuel per passenger-kilometre. For example, modern wide-body models like the Boeing 787 and Airbus A350 are up to 20 % more efficient per km than older generation jets. Airlines replacing older models usually see both emission drops and fuel cost savings.
2. Look for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) usage
Sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) can cut greenhouse gas emissions by up to 85 % over its life cycle compared to conventional jet fuel when processed and certified correctly.
United Airlines was the first US carrier to purchase SAF for operations at O’Hare and now leads in SAF usage under its Eco-Skies Alliance program.
3. Review sustainability reporting
Airlines that publish detailed sustainability reports make it easier to compare them. Look for data on CO₂ emissions per available seat-kilometre, percentage of fuel from SAF, load factors, and fleet age. Independent ratings by groups like ICCT or Atmosfair help validate claims.
Air France-KLM’s SAF agreements
Air France-KLM signed a major deal with TotalEnergies to secure up to 1.5 million tons of SAF over 10 years.
The group used about 80,000 metric tons of SAF in 2023, nearly double what it used in 2022, and is working toward its goal of 10 % SAF usage by 2030.
4. Choose efficient routes and seating
Non-stop flights use less fuel per traveller than flights with stopovers because take-offs and landings consume more energy.
Flying economy or premium economy uses less space per person than business or first class, so emissions per person drop.
Booking tools such as Google Flights now include CO₂ estimates per route, which makes comparisons easier.
5. Evaluate carbon offsetting programs critically
Many airlines offer offsets tied to tree planting, renewable energy or carbon capture.
Ensure programs are third-party verified, transparent and represent real CO₂ reductions rather than vague promises.
Offsets should supplement, not replace, direct emissions reductions.
6. Check climate targets and innovation projects
Look for airlines with firm targets such as net zero by 2050, SAF blending mandates, and investments in new tech.
United has launched a Sustainable Flight Fund exceeding USD 200 million and reports year-over-year progress in reducing emissions intensity while expanding SAF use.
7. Support airlines that disclose and measure improvements
Seek airlines that report improvements year over year. Metrics such as emissions per passenger-kilometre, SAF volumes, or fleet renewal rates provide accountability.
Transparency helps travellers make informed choices and rewards airlines that back commitments with real numbers.
What can travellers do now?
- Choose nonstop flights where possible.
- Fly economy if you can.
- Check airlines’ sustainability reports.
- Use booking tools with emissions data.
- Pack lighter.
- Support airlines that are serious about SAF, modern fleets, and strong climate goals.
Business implications
For companies managing travel budgets, using greener airlines reduces Scope 3 emissions and helps with compliance with upcoming regulations.
Airlines adopting SAF and efficiency measures reduce fuel costs and build stronger reputations. Institutional buyers using these criteria can help accelerate demand for sustainable aviation.
Choosing an airline with a lower carbon footprint requires checking fleet efficiency, SAF usage, climate targets, route design, and credible reporting. Case studies like Air France-KLM and United show that real progress is possible. Your choice at booking can contribute to cleaner skies and help reshape air travel to be more sustainable.
