Austrian Airlines (OS)

The SAF used by Austrian Airlines is produced solely from biological waste, such as used cooking oils and agricultural residues. The airline has signed an agreement with OMV to participate in the Reoil project, which converts plastic items collected during flights into fuel through a thermolysis process. In 2023, Austrian Airlines consumed 650 tonnes of this SAF. However, this amount accounted for only a very small share (approximately 0.16%) of the airline’s total jet fuel demand.

The airline continuously invests in modernising its entire fleet. The Boeing 787-9 is up to 20% more fuel-efficient and has superior energy efficiency compared to previous models. The existing fleet is optimised to reduce noise, including through the installation of vortex generators (an aerodynamic device used on aircraft to improve airflow around the wing or fuselage), which are fitted to all Airbus A320 and A321s, significantly reducing noise upon approach.

The airline is subject to the EU ETS quota system for all its flights in Europe. In 2016, the airline signed the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA).

The airline also offers its customers the opportunity to contribute to funding the purchase of Sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) through an option customers can select during booking. Travellers can also select the “green fares” option, which automatically includes the individual offsetting of emissions associated with the flight in the final ticket price. Austrian Airlines has implemented an environmental management system certified in accordance with the EU’s EMAS (Eco-Management and Audit Scheme) standard, with annual validation to ensure traceability and measure the company’s environmental efforts. The first validation took place in 2023. The Lufthansa Group, of which Austrian Airlines is a member, has also introduced an option enabling companies to reduce their emissions. In addition to customised packages for the use of SAF, companies can offset their emissions through a combination of SAF and climate protection projects.

The airline continuously optimises its flight operations. Pilots have powerful digital tools for flight routes and altitudes.

Austrian Airlines has also introduced a meal pre-order system on board, aimed at reducing waste by preserving unused food. Additionally, thanks to the ReOil project, Austrian Airlines recycles waste on board. Flight attendants collect plastics, which are then transformed into pyrolysis oil by OMV for the production of SAF. In 2023, 5.46 tonnes of plastics were thus recycled.