How Emirates pilots reduce fuel and emissions during operations

Flying smarter and minimizing fuel consumption and emissions starts in the cockpit. Emirates embarked on implementing “Green Operating Procedures” (‘Green Ops’) in 2016, adopting a multi-pronged approach to reduce on-ground and in-flight fuel use.

This initiative also provides pilots with necessary education, awareness, data analytics, and technology to manage flights efficiently.

Led by an internal cross-functional Operations Efficiency Steering Group, Emirates aims to mitigate unnecessary fuel burn and emissions while maintaining high safety standards.

In the financial year 2023-2024, ‘Green Ops’ and other initiatives helped reduce fuel burn by over 48,000 tonnes and carbon emissions by more than 151,000 tonnes. Key operational measures include:

Discretionary Extra Fuel

• Pilots assess operational circumstances to uplift extra fuel beyond the minimum regulatory standards only when necessary, resulting in a significant reduction of discretionary extra fuel uplift.

Flight Speed Optimization

• Pilots optimize flight speed to reduce fuel consumption while maintaining schedule integrity, as part of Emirates’ standard operating procedures.

Reduced Flap Landing

• Pilots select flap settings that minimize aerodynamic drag, reducing fuel consumption without compromising safety.

Idle Reverse Thrust

• Upon landing, pilots use idle reverse thrust to decelerate the aircraft, depending on runway conditions, to reduce fuel consumption.

Reduced Engine Taxi-In (RETI)

• After landing, pilots shut down one or two engines during ground taxiing, increasing the use of RETI sevenfold since its introduction.

Optimized Flight Routings

• Emirates uses flexible flight routes, optimizing each route for fuel efficiency and time savings since 2003.

Technology and Innovation – FlightPulse

• Emirates introduced FlightPulse, a self-service data analytics tool developed with GE Digital Aviation Services, enhancing monitoring and collaboration for improved safety and fuel efficiency.

Center of Gravity Optimization

• Aircraft are loaded to optimize the center of gravity, enhancing aerodynamic efficiency and saving fuel.

APU Usage

• On the ground, Emirates reduces APU usage in favor of electrical ground power units (GPU), reducing emissions by over 30%.

Adjusted Potable Water Uplift

• Flights upload the required amount of potable water calculated scientifically, reducing weight and ensuring fuel efficiency without compromising passenger comfort.

Through these comprehensive measures, Emirates pilots play a crucial role in reducing fuel consumption and emissions, contributing to more sustainable airline operations.