Smart about how we Fly
Heavier aircraft need more fuel, so packing lighter means less fuel burn and fewer emissions. We are making a difference by packing lighter and finding smarter ways to fly.
Potable H20
A potable H20 tank supplies the aircraft with water. When full, the tank weighs approximately 350 lb. to 500 lb., depending on the aircraft. By installing an external sight gauge we can determine how much potable water is used on a specific flight.
Calculating and carrying the exact amount of water needed for a specific flight is estimated to save 250 lb. of extra weight a year. This leads to an overall fuel savings of appropriately 0.2 per cent, which in turn, results in reduced aircraft weight, improved aircraft performance and reduced fuel burn and emissions. We anticipate that our entire fleet retrofit will be completed by the first quarter of 2010.
Flying more direct, precision approaches
We were the first carrier in Canada to adopt Required Navigation Performance (RNP) approach technology to improve access and approach routes to various airports. RNP utilizes global positioning system (GPS) satellites to allow aircraft to fly more direct, precision approaches to airports providing an increased margin of safety and higher completion rates while reducing fuel burn and emissions from the aircraft.
Staying informed
We are staying in-the-know on the technical development and certification of biofuels through our involvement with ASTM International, one of the largest voluntary standards development organizations in the world.
