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Operational Issues vs The Environment A Pilot’s Perspective. By Jason Robinson Base Captain Thomas Cook Airlines. Can an efficient, safe operation also be an environmentally sound operation?.
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Operational Issues vsThe EnvironmentA Pilot’s Perspective By Jason Robinson Base Captain Thomas Cook Airlines
Can an efficient, safe operation also be an environmentally sound operation? • The most efficient operators utilise the most modern technology, burning the least fuel, and generating the least noise. • A safe operation is paramount. • Charter and low cost operators represent the most environmentally conscious way to travel since they operate their aircraft at close to full capacity. • The 2 can go hand in hand.
Noise vs fuel burnAn impossible conundrum? • Aircraft must take-off using flap, and then ‘clean up’ at approx 1500’. • Thrust reduction then occurs resulting in a decrease in noise to surrounding areas. • The resulting ‘clean’ aircraft can then accelerate and has a lower fuel burn. • It is important to achieve a happy medium between the two.
Constant Climb/Constant DescentFlight Profiles • Most efficient way of operating. • Constant climb = reaches cruise level quickest. • Constant descent = flight idle from top of descent to approx 6nm finals. • Impeding factors. • Current work in progress. • Some interesting facts.
Initiatives currently underway at Thomas Cook Airlines • New multi airframe order for more fuel efficient aircraft. • Fitting of fuel efficient winglets wherever possible. • Annual Pilot Development Forum to increase pilot fuel awareness. • Dedicated fuel efficiency working group. • Collaboration between MAG/ Airlines/ Eurocontrol.