Despite the challenging conditions that airlines face across the globe, Air Canada remains focused on upholding its sustainability commitments. The flag carrier of Canada has today shared some key achievements for 2019 and 2020. It has also expressed its desire to maintain its vision into the future.

A decade in the making

According to a press release seen by Simple Flying, between 2009 and 2019, Air Canada saw a 19% improvement in fuel efficiency. There are also several other factors that the firm highlighted.

The carrier shared some additional achievements, including:

  • Being on course to meet a 1.5% improvement in fuel efficiency by the end of 2020
  • Making progress on carbon-neutral growth, via CORSIA
  • Supporting the development of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) in Canada
  • Achieving its recycling target for 2020 a year early
  • Removing some 38 million pieces of single-use plastic from aircraft cabins last year

Additionally, at the end of last year, Air Canada received its first Airbus A220 aircraft. Altogether, eight units of the narrowbody are in the carrier's fleet. It is also expecting two more of the type to arrive in the future. The airline expects that the introduction of this aircraft will average 20% less fuel consumption per seat and emit 20% less carbon dioxide.

Air Canada A220
The airline is proud of its new A220 aircraft. Photo: Air Canada

Still a priority

The global health crisis has rocked the aviation industry, causing a shift in focus in the market this year. However, Air Canada's Executive Vice President, Chief Human Resources and Communications Officer, Arielle Meloul-Wechsler highlighted the importance of the company's continued efforts.

She said that the company will overcome these challenges so that it consistently serves local communities. Additionally, it seeks to carry on contributing to the social and economic health of its country.

"The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on our employees, customers, communities and other stakeholders," Meloul-Wechsler said, as per the press release.

"But we must not lose sight of all the great achievements of the last decade. I truly believe that our resilience, strong culture and engagement during these unprecedented times will serve us well for years to come."

Air-Canada-Infinite-Flight-pass-getty
Air Canada lauded the government's decision. Photo: Getty Images

Looking forward

Altogether, in the months before the coronavirus pandemic, the emphasis on improving sustainability efforts was evident across the industry. However, airlines had to respond quickly to the change of circumstances.

Nonetheless, Air Canada is showing that despite the new climate, it won't let its past achievements go to waste. There is still a long way to go for the aviation sector when it comes to environmental targets. However, it is positive to see that there is a focus on these measures even when times are tough.

What are your thoughts about Air Canada's commitment to sustainability goals across its services? Do you feel that the airline is progressing well in this field? Let us know what you think of the situation in the comment section.