Commercial aircraft with a smaller carbon footprint

Explore the advancements in sustainable aviation with commercial aircraft prioritising reduced carbon emissions. Discover innovative technologies such as Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), hybrid-electric propulsion, and hydrogen-powered planes. This guide is ideal for industry professionals, aviation enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the eco-friendly future of air travel. We analyse how these solutions contribute to a lower environmental impact within the commercial aviation sector.

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  1. 1

    Airbus A350 Family

    239 Global Votes
    • Eco-efficient aircraft

      (+4)

    The Airbus A350 uses a structure with over two-thirds composite materials and Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines, resulting in a 25% saving in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions per seat. It is one of the most eco-efficient wide-body aircraft, with the capability to use SAF and aiming for 100% compatibility by 2030.

  2. 2

    Airbus A320neo

    18 Global Votes
    • Averages 18% reduction in overall emissions

      (+4)

    The A320neo family is a modernization of the popular A320, equipped with new-generation engines and aerodynamic improvements that reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. It remains a very popular and efficient option for short and medium-haul routes, with airlines renewing their fleets to reduce their carbon intensity.

  3. 3

    Airbus A330neo Family

    6 Global Votes
    • First large airliner certified for ICAO CO2 emissions standard

      (+4)

    The A330neo family incorporates new-generation Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines and aerodynamic improvements, reducing fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by 20%. It was the first aircraft to obtain ICAO reduced CO2 emissions certification, making it an advanced and versatile option for short and long-haul operations.

  4. 4

    ATR 72-600

    6 Global Votes
    • Exceptional fuel efficiency

      (+4)

    This regional turboprop aircraft is recognized as the most efficient in its category, offering a notable 45% reduction in CO2 emissions per trip compared to similarly sized regional jets. It is the first aircraft with fewer than 100 seats to receive EASA's CS-CO₂ certification, exceeding the ICAO standard.

  5. 5

    Boeing 737 MAX Family

    0 Global Votes
    • Saves airlines around 200,000 gallons of jet fuel per year

      (+4)

    The Boeing 737 MAX incorporates more efficient CFM LEAP-1B engines and aerodynamic improvements, allowing it to offer significant improvements in fuel consumption and noise reduction. Despite initial challenges, it has returned to service and remains a cornerstone for many airlines seeking efficiency on single-aisle routes.

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  7. 6

    Embraer E-Jets E2 Family

    0 Global Votes
    • Reduces carbon emissions by 30%

      (+4)

    This family of aircraft replaces the first generation of E-Jets with new wing types, Pratt & Whitney PW1000G engines, and fly-by-wire avionics, resulting in a significant reduction in fuel consumption. It is considered the most efficient single-aisle aircraft in its segment and is compatible with 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).

  8. 7

    Boeing 787 Dreamliner Family

    0 Global Votes
    • Vastly reduces carbon emissions compared to replaced aircraft

      (+4)

    The Boeing 787 Dreamliner stands out for its extensive use of composite materials, which reduces its weight and, combined with more efficient engines and advanced aerodynamics, allows it to consume between 20% and 30% less fuel. It remains a benchmark in efficiency for long-haul flights, having avoided billions of kilograms of carbon emissions.