Finnair Raises the Bar for Airline Sustainability with New Anti-Carbon Program

Finnair revealed one of the most ambitious sustainability programs last week when it announced its goal to reach carbon neutrality by 2045. To reach that goal, the airline looks to reduce emissions of 2019’s baseline by 50 percent by the end of 2025.

The airline’s strategy will transform Finnair’s entire operation to reduce its footprint. The overall strategy includes large investments in the airline’s infrastructure and waste reduction.

Specifically, the plan includes a €3.5 billion investment in its fleet to reduce emissions by up to 15 percent, investing €60 million in sustainability through 2025, reducing onboard weight for every flight including ending in-flight retail, increasing use of sustainable aviation fuels, reducing single-use plastics by 50 percent by the end of 2022 and reducing food waste by 50 percent by the end of 2022.

“Aviation is a fast-paced industry subject to many changes, and everything impacts it. Maintaining a long-term perspective at all times, in all market situations is key. The plans we announced today prepare us for the next 100 years of Finnair’s future,” said Topi Manner, CEO, Finnair.

Part of the airline’s goal — to increase its use of sustainable aviation fuel — rests in part on its partnership with Neste. This Finnish firm is the world’s largest producer of sustainable aviation fuel. The partnership also ensures the firm is able to produce more fuel overall.

In 2020, the airline is introducing more vegetarian dining options to combat CO2 production prevalent in meat production. In non-flight operations, the airline is working to implement renewable energy. Non-flight operations will be carbon neutral by 2022.