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Aviation’s global greening continues
Carriers, airports, and industry associations alike are implementing initiatives, tests, and pilot programs on a worldwide scale as they increase their commitment to reducing their collective impact on the environment.
A variety of efforts undertaken by carriers include:- Newer fuel-efficient, lighter weight planes
- Satellite-based navigation for accurate and direct flying even in inclement weather
- Single engine taxiing on runways
Greener methods of engine cleaning - Use of ground power at the gate rather than onboard units
- Use of electric powered ground service equipment
- Testing new devices for de-icing planes, reducing de-icing fluids
- Recycling motor oil, retired computers, and more
- Replacing toxic cleaning solutions with eco-friendly cleaners
Selected roofing materials may:- Use special membrane material that shades the sun and allows natural light through skylights
- Reflect energy, limit heat gain, and direct rainwater for the use of building services
- Use a vegetated “green roof” to reduce storm runoff, reduce urban heat-island effect, and outlast conventional roofs
International industry organizations are at the forefront of the green efforts. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) proposes reduction of greenhouse gas emissions to zero by 2050, through use of solar, bio-fuel, or other clean energy. They believe it can be done through technology, operations, infrastructure, and economic measures.
Another group, Air Transport Action Group (ATAG) defines itself on its Website as “the only global industry association that brings together organizations and companies throughout the air transport chain that are committed to achieving infrastructure improvements and addressing the environmental challenges facing the industries.” Recognizing that aviation is part of the problem, it is determined to be part of the solution.
Its membership comprises carriers, airports, manufacturers, and air navigation services providers, among others. It has created a Website, www.enviro.aero, to provide information on industry measures underway to limit the impact of aviation on the environment. Links to airlines, airports, carbon offsetting, governmental bodies, cargo, news and media, and others are provided.
Travelers, too, can make a difference. Combine other means of public transportation (where available) with air travel, pack lightly, and compare the carbon emissions of different travel options.
Sources: Chicago Tribune, enviro.aero
New array of meal options at baggage-claims
An emerging trend has shown an increase in the number of concessions and restaurants opening in arrivals and baggage-claim areas at airports—f illing the need created by the lack of in-flight meals on most airlines. Meal options in these areas cater especially to travelers coming home to empty refrigerators or arriving too late or too early; and to those who are meeting and greeting arriving passengers (since post-9/11, they do not have access to the concourse area and the concessions there).
Following are a few examples of the changes being made at airports across North America:
Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport opened a Starbucks at the baggage claim to make friends and family members' wait more enjoyable.
Vancouver's airport features food courts in the domestic and international arrivals area, as well as a pub and a number of fast-food options near the domestic baggage claim.
Calgary keeps about 60 percent of its airport open to the public, with multiple food offerings along the baggage-claim area; and restaurants and fast-food concessions are just an escalator ride away from the luggage carousels.
Montreal's international arrivals area has its own restaurant and grocery store.
The Edmonton International Airport baggage claim area has been enhanced with a variety of concession options.
While security and public safety remain top priorities, airports around the globe are also focusing on customer service—making an effort to improve the traveler experience by recognizing the needs of the hungry traveler.
Source: Canada.com
