Delta advances sustainability goals with significant strides in decarbonization

Policy

Hussein Berry, V.P. – Airport Operations DTW | Delta Air Lines

By Sky Industry News

Dec 17, 2024

Delta Air Lines is advancing its sustainability and decarbonization goals with a range of initiatives aimed at reducing carbon emissions and fuel consumption. The airline's Chief Sustainability Officer, Amelia DeLuca, emphasized the importance of current decisions in achieving future goals: “2050 may seem far off, but the reality is, decisions we make today will directly impact our ability to meet our goals in the coming decades."

One of Delta's key achievements in 2024 was nearly doubling its fuel savings compared to 2023 through its Carbon Council. The council saved 41 million gallons of jet fuel by implementing enhanced routing and landing procedures, among other strategies. These efforts are part of Delta's ongoing commitment to innovation and operational efficiency.

Sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) continues to be a critical component of Delta’s decarbonization strategy. Despite limited availability, Delta increased its SAF deliveries significantly over the past year. The airline aims for 10% SAF usage by 2030 and collaborates with various stakeholders to boost production.

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Government support has also played a role in expanding the SAF market. Delta has worked with federal and state agencies to advocate for policies that facilitate SAF production. This year saw several advancements, including government loans for large-scale production facilities and grants for blending capabilities.

In addition to these efforts, Delta made strides in reducing single-use plastics on flights by introducing paper cups on international routes and transitioning earbud packaging from plastic to kraft paper. Technological innovations like TaxiBot are being tested to further reduce jet fuel consumption during taxiing operations.

At its Atlanta headquarters, Delta implemented campus greening initiatives such as installing solar panels and additional electric vehicle charging ports. These measures contribute to sustainable energy use at their facilities.

The airline also signed an agreement with AeroCore Technologies for foam engine washing technology expected to save millions of gallons of fuel annually by improving engine performance.

Delta's commitment extends beyond current operations as it supports Boeing’s X-66 Sustainable Flight Demonstrator program. This initiative explores new aircraft designs that could enhance fuel efficiency through reduced drag.

To ensure continued progress, Delta established cross-divisional councils focused on sustainability initiatives like SAF scaling and green practices across corporate accounts. Additionally, new operational KPIs were introduced this year to engage employees in sustainability efforts actively.

As it approaches its centennial anniversary next year, Delta remains dedicated to pursuing net-zero emissions by 2050 through collaborative efforts within the aviation industry and beyond.