EasyJet is pioneering a thinner paint coating on its aircraft to reduce fuel consumption and cut carbon emissions, setting new industry standards in sustainability.
Leading the charge in sustainable aviation with a new initiative to reduce carbon emissions by applying thinner layers of paint to its aircraft. The Luton-based airline is the first in the world to trial this innovative system, achieving the same finish with less paint, thus lowering fuel consumption.
Ranasinghe, an EasyJet spokesperson, highlighted that the company is meticulously examining all aspects of its operations to identify efficiency gains. This move is part of a broader industry effort to meet the ambitious goal of net zero emissions by 2050. While sectors like automotive manufacturing are making strides with electric vehicles, the aviation industry faces unique challenges.
Since 2000, EasyJet has reduced its CO2 emissions per passenger mile by a third through fleet modernisation, replacing older aircraft with more efficient models. The airline aims to reduce its carbon footprint by 35% by 2035, compared to pre-Covid levels, and has already achieved a 5% improvement.
EasyJet’s future plans include further fleet renewal, operational efficiencies, and increased SAF usage. Modernising air traffic control and potential carbon-capture technology are also expected to contribute to emission reductions. The airline collaborates with aerospace giants like Airbus, Rolls-Royce, and GKN to develop zero-carbon propulsion systems.
The new, environmentally friendly coating will be applied to EasyJet’s orange and white aircraft at a Dutch facility operated by MAAS Aviation, a maintenance specialist based in Dublin.