Delta Air Lines is intensifying its efforts to cut carbon emissions, aiming for net-zero emissions by 2050. With jet fuel accounting for approximately 90% of its emissions, the airline is prioritizing strategies under the themes "What We Fly, How We Fly, and The Fuel We Use." Amelia DeLuca, Delta's Chief Sustainability Officer, emphasized, "Aviation is a hard-to-decarbonize sector, and while there is no single path to reaching our net-zero emissions goals, we’re optimistic about the work ahead and the progress we’re making every year."
Delta is investing in state-of-the-art aircraft to enhance fuel efficiency and is collaborating with technology firms to innovate the future of flying. This includes partnerships with current aircraft manufacturers and new tech partners to develop fuel-efficient and revolutionary airframes.
The company is improving operational efficiency to save jet fuel. Initiatives include reducing onboard weight, optimizing landing and flight procedures, and minimizing auxiliary power unit use. These efforts have resulted in significant fuel savings and cost reductions, saving 44 million gallons of jet fuel in 2024, equating to over $100 million in cost savings.