A new take-off procedure for the A380 ‘superjumbo’, which saves on fuel and emits less CO2, has been developed at Heathrow.
     It will be used immediately on Singapore Airlines flights and details are being sent to other A380 users.
     Making maximum use of the aircraft’s sophisticated electronics, a team of experts from BAA, NATS, Singapore Airlines and Airbus has devised the departure procedure which is more efficient – yet still within the airport’s strict noise limits.
     It is estimated that the new scheme can save an additional 300kg of fuel per flight, equating to one metric tonne of emissions of CO2 on a flight to Singapore, as well as reducing NOx emissions.
    The companies worked together over the last year to develop the new airline procedure, which has been put into place immediately. Singapore Airlines A380s departing Heathrow now use less power when taking off, saving fuel and reducing NOx emissions. Once a height of 1,500 feet has been reached, the aircraft uses flexible acceleration up to 4,000 feet, before continuing its journey.
    “The A380 represents the most significant step forward in reducing aircraft fuel burn and resultant emissions in four decades whilst offering greater comfort on board,” said Tom Williams, executive vice president programmes, Airbus.
    “In fact, the A380 consumes less than three litres of fuel per passenger per 100 km.”
     Jane Dawes, operational noise and air quality manager from BAA Heathrow said, “The Airbus A380 is already the most fuel efficient aircraft in commercial service, burning 17% less fuel per passenger than other large aircraft. By 2020 one in ten flights at Heathrow could use A380s. It is important that we work constantly with our airlines to improve operating processes, and the introduction of these new departure procedures demonstrates our commitment to reducing emissions.”
    Captain Gerard Yeap, senior vice president flight operations, Singapore Airlines, “Our cooperation with Heathrow, NATS and Airbus goes to show what can be achieved when stakeholders share the same goal of reducing carbon emissions and fuel burn. Singapore Airlines is committed to playing its part in ensuring greener skies and sustainable air travel, and we hope this partnership will serve as a model for airport operators and governments elsewhere in the world.”