CHC Helicopter launches flight planning software to verify CO2 emissions
Rotary services company CHC Helicopter has launched proprietary flight planning software, branded as ClearSkies to verify CO2 emissions. Available to clients on CHC’s AW139, AW189 and S92 fleets, with further deployment planned for its H175 fleet, the software is said to deliver an average reduction of at least 5% of CO2 emissions.
Claimed to be the industry’s first “lowest carbon” rotary wing flight planning software, ClearSkies was developed and tested in-house to improve the sustainability of its flight operations. It has been incorporated into the company’s bespoke Operational Flight Planning System (OFPS) to improve flight profiles, cut fuel use and optimise CO2 emission reductions. The software, which maps the most fuel-efficient routes for customers, taking into account key factors including helicopter type, distance, altitude, weight of load, and current weather conditions at the time of flight. CHC is using the software for flights for some customers, including for Shell UK.
Jørn Madsen, CEO, CHC said the company is committed to taking good care of its people, business operations and the environment. “The aviation industry has an important role to play in reducing global emissions and we’re proud to spearhead more sustainable flights and a reduction of our carbon footprint in the helicopter sector,” he said.
John Hopkinson, vice president, Safety, Compliance and Flight Standards, CHC said sustainable practices and responsible operations go hand in hand with business success. “Through technological advancements delivered by our team, we are able to deliver demonstrable reductions in CO2 emissions for our customers,” said Hopkinson. “Together, we can contribute to a more sustainable and greener future for the aviation industry and beyond.”
CHC is also introducing Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) for customers. Using SAF cuts lifecycle carbon emissions by about 80% compared with fossil-based jet fuel.
SAF is available at CHC bases in Norway, Aberdeen, Scotland and Den Helder, Netherlands, with further deployment planned. The company is also supplying SAF to clients at selected offshore locations this year through a partnership between Air bp and Swire Energy Services. Pictured during a visit to CHC’s Aberdeen base to view the first ClearSkies flight for Shell are (L to R): Jørn Madsen, CEO, CHC, John Hopkinson, vice president Safety, Compliance and Flight Standards, CHC and and Simon Roddy, senior vice president, Upstream, Shell UK.
