Cirium to launch aircraft emissions and fuel burn data platform

Aviation analytics company Cirium has introduced Emerald Sky, an independent analytical tool used to gather precise measurements on aircraft emissions and fuel burn. Its methodology analyses each flight's specific aircraft type and design specifications, combined with real-time operational data and flight conditions to ensure accurate emission tracking. Cirium said the tool is distinct from traditional carbon calculators that relies on ""broad estimates and loose assumptions"" such as pre-planned routes instead of actual flown paths, as well as ignoring variables like wind speed and direction. It said Emerald Sky's emission results are based on the seat in a specific class of service and ""sets a new standard in aircraft emissions measurement."" The company's CEO Jeremy Bowen said: ""Cirium’s mission is to establish the industry standard for accurate fuel burn and carbon emissions data to empower the aviation sector to deliver on its sustainability targets."" Cirium's chief marketing officer Mike Malik said in a press conference: ""In essence, Emerald Sky seamlessly integrates our comprehensive data and analytics with a scientific methodology that can provide an independent assessment of forecasted and flown emissions for a specific aircraft on a specific flight."" He added: ""The issue of sustainable travel and reaching net zero by 2050... is a strategic imperative for our industry... it's crucial to have a common base from which to measure the industry's improvement over time."" The data product allows users a thorough assessment of sustainable aircraft and fleet options, as well as identify opportunities for aircraft upgrades. With the European Union emissions trading scheme requiring monitoring and reporting from the aviation sector in 2025, the tool hopes to allow the industry to comply with emissions regulations and ESG reporting requirements. ""The reality is, there are over 950 commercial airlines worldwide,"" said Cirium director of product marketing Jim Hetzel. ""The task for each airline to report in a standard way could take months, to a year, or more to get that data in a timely fashion so that it can be used effectively."" He added that with Emerald Sky, Cirium hopes to streamline this process. Malik added that the goal of Emerald Sky is to help achieve net zero by 2050 and to ""leave something behind for the next generations"" and ensuring the right decisions are made in the industry. The tool will also forecast the demand for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), evaluate investments in aviation carbon offset and elimination programmes, and promote eco-friendly travel through the provision of sustainable flight options.