EasyJet pilots to save fuel and emissions in switch from paper to digital fuel uplift

Low-cost airline easyJet is to deploy a new system from i6 Group that allows pilots to order and confirm fuel digitally, replacing a process that has traditionally relied on paperwork and manual data entry. By giving pilots more accurate fuel information, says easyJet, the technology can help make flights more efficient, cut unnecessary cost and also reduce fuel burn and emissions through weight savings. The eHandshake platform will create a complete digital record of fuel planning, ordering, delivery and acceptance that will help improve data accuracy and invoice verification. The technology will be integrated into easyJet’s ETechlog pilot platform and has the potential, says the carrier, to save around 10,000 tonnes of CO2 per year across full fleet deployment, as well as approximately 600,000 sheets of paper annually as a result of moving from paper-based processes.

By replacing paper-based processes with a single digital fuel workflow, easyJet says the platform will connect pilots, fuel suppliers and operational teams in real time, streamlining communication and improving the accuracy of fuel ordering and delivery.

“At easyJet, we are continually looking for opportunities to improve our operations through technology and innovation. Introducing eHandshake with i6 Group will provide a more connected and efficient fuel management process, improving data quality, giving us greater visibility across fuel operations and enabling reduced fuel consumption,” commented Adam Baker, Head of Fuel Performance at easyJet, on the deployment.

“As we continue to modernise our operations, initiatives like this demonstrate how innovation and collaboration across the industry can incrementally help reduce aviation’s environmental impact both in the air and on the ground.”

The airline says operational efficiency improvements like digital fuelling are a key part of its net zero roadmap and reports it is on track to meet its 35% reduction target in carbon emissions intensity by 2035.

The eHandshake platform will be introduced through a phased rollout, with initial deployment covering around half the airline’s network and is expected to expand to around 90% of destinations over the next three years.

“By integrating eHandshake into the technology pilots already use, fuel information can be shared and verified digitally between pilots, fuel providers and operational teams,” explained Alex Mattos, co-founder and CEO of i6 Group.

“This will improve communication and data accuracy, reduce unnecessary fuel uplift and help easyJet deliver greater operational efficiency while lowering costs and emissions.”

Founded in 2015 and headquartered in Farnborough, UK, i6 Group specialises in cloud-based digital fuel management solutions linking airlines, fuel service providers and suppliers across more than 300 airports worldwide. Customers include British Airways, Ryanair, JetBlue, KLM, Air Canada, Virgin Atlantic, Menzies Aviation, PrimeFlight, Shell Aviation and Q8 Aviation.

The company claims its technology can reduce operational costs by up to $240, and save up to 65kg fuel and 201kg of CO2 per long-haul flight.

Photo: easyJet pilot with the i6 Group digital fuel system

Christopher Surgenor
Editor