Aviation code reduces fuel use

A coalition of aviation experts has published a Departures Code of Practice to help reduce the fuel used by aircraft at airports.

The code notes that shutting down an engine during taxi-in operations can reduce the fuel burnt by an aircraft by 20 to 40 per cent and cut the nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions by 10 to 30 per cent, depending on the aircraft type.

The technique, which would only be carried out when other safety considerations have been assured, would deliver significant improvements to local air quality at airports.

The interim voluntary Code of Practice has been compiled by a group representing airlines, airports, air-traffic control, the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and ADS, the UK's aerospace, defence and security trade body representing aircraft manufacturers. It has been published ahead of the full version of the code, which is expected to be finalised early next year.

It recommends that aircraft operators review their Standard Operating Procedures to help promote the idea that aircraft could taxi without all their engines running as they travel from the runway to the airport terminal.

The document says that shutting down an engine during taxi-in operations should be planned in advance and accomplished as early as possible during the taxiing process to obtain the maximum environmental benefits.