10 October 2008
Innovation

A cooperative effort involving Airbus, Scandinavian Airlines and the Swedish LFV airport authority has validated new landing procedures that reduce fuel burn, emissions and noise levels during approach to airports.

During a series of evaluations that began in December 2007, Scandinavian Airlines A330s in operational service employed a continuous descent approach (CDA) during landing procedures. This technique is more environmentally-friendly than standard approaches, which utilise phased or stepped descents.

During one test flight, a Scandinavian Airlines A330-300 became the first long-range aircraft to perform a transatlantic commercial trip with a CDA arrival, concluding a flight from New York to Stockholm.

The commercial experience of Scandinavian Airlines' A330s highlighted the immediate advantages of continuous descent approaches, and also presented opportunities for future improvements - including potential advances in operational efficiency, air traffic capacity and safety.

Scandinavian Airlines estimates that CDA procedures can result in an annual fuel reduction of an estimated 95 tonnes per aircraft - representing a 290-tonne reduction in C02 emissions, as well as a decrease in airport noise levels of 3-5 decibels.

The results of these tests will be applied to the design and operation of future Airbus aircraft, including the A350 XWB.