United Airlines is honoring Earth Month by announcing its new goal to save 85 million gallons of fuel in 2013, equivalent to 828,750 metric tons of CO2 or roughly $275 million dollars at current fuel prices. Fuel is the airline's single largest expense and its primary focus environmentally, and the company has several initiatives in place that will allow it to achieve its fuel efficiency goal.
"We are committed to reducing our fuel consumption and our environmental footprint," said United's Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer Jeff Smisek. "I am proud of the actions we take every day throughout the year that help shape a more sustainable future for our customers, our co-workers and the communities we serve."
United has already improved its fuel efficiency by 32% since 1994 through programs such as improved flight planning, single engine taxiing, lighter products onboard, and use of ground power instead of the onboard auxiliary power unit to save fuel and reduce carbon emissions while aircraft are parked.
The airline is also investing in a modern, fuel-efficient fleet to replace less fuel-efficient aircraft, while also improving the performance of its current fleet using winglets.
United's fuel savings initiatives are part of the company's larger commitment to environmental sustainability under its Eco-Skies program, which includes bio-fuel flights and recycling programmes.
United takes action to save fuel
