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Hungarian low-cost carrier Wizz Air recently hosted a conference on Earth Day, highlighting its sustainability initiatives. Known for being highly sustainable in the EMEA region, the airline has already met its carbon emissions intensity target, achieving 52 grams per revenue passenger kilometer for the 2024 fiscal year. By 2030, Wizz Air plans a 25% reduction in carbon emissions per passenger, aligning with global decarbonization targets.
Yvonne Moynihan, Wizz Air's ESG Chief, outlined a three-pillar decarbonization strategy. The first focus is on modernizing the fleet with next-generation narrowbody aircraft like the Airbus A320neo and A321neo, which are more fuel-efficient. The second strategy emphasizes earning recognition for sustainability efforts, having already won the "Best Airline For Carbon Reduction" award at the World Finance Carbon Awards. The final pillar is increasing the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), aiming for 10% usage by 2030, supported by investments in SAF producers alongside Indigo Partners.
Despite these initiatives, challenges remain. Moynihan highlighted difficulties in SAF procurement due to limited distribution in Europe, primarily through the producer Neste, and the significant compliance costs with EU mandates. Regulatory support is deemed essential to facilitate SAF procurement.
