Italian airline ITA Airways, part of Lufthansa, announced on Thursday that it will create a fuel-saving and lower-emissions plan using an AI tool designed to enhance aircraft flight performance.
The US-Israeli confrontation with Iran has had a particularly negative impact on airlines, requiring them to increase rates, add fuel surcharges or ground planes, and update their financial projections due to rising jet fuel prices.
According to ITA, by using AI, over 7,100 tonnes of fuel savings and over 22,100 tonnes of CO2 would be delivered between 2025 and 2026.
Using predictive analytics, machine learning, and 4D meteorological data, SITA’s OptiFlight, which is deployed throughout the group’s fleet, determines the most effective climb profile for every flight. This profile includes airspeed, acceleration, power, and a progressive increase in height from departure to cruising altitude.
It enables us to significantly reduce pollutants and fuel consumption without sacrificing effectiveness or safety. According to a statement from ITA Chief Innovation Officer Francesco Presicce, “this initiative is part of our broader commitment to more sustainable and responsible aviation.”
According to Yann Cabaret, CEO of SITA for Aircraft, “the aviation industry faces the urgent challenge of reducing emissions while maintaining operational efficiency,” in the same statement.
”Fuel consumption is one of the biggest hurdles for airlines facing increasing regulatory and environmental pressures, and with it being one of the biggest costs in day-to-day operations, the need for intelligent solutions has never been greater,” further stated.
In recent weeks, the price of jet fuel has skyrocketed from $85 to $90 per barrel to $150 to $200 per barrel, a severe blow to an industry where fuel may make up as much as 25% of operating costs.
