JANE ASHTON

SUSTAINABILITY DIRECTOR, EASYJET

Future-proofing with hydrogen propulsion

Ashton believes in hydrogen propulsion because it is a more sustainable solution than SAF, with the potential to reach "true zero" emissions. Together with Rolls-Royce, they are backing the H2Zero initiative, which aims to test the use of hydrogen on a commercial scale. Ground tests have already shown promising results, with the successful testing of the world's first hydrogen engine aircraft in November 2022.

Immediate emission cuts and operational efficiency

easyJet is cutting emissions by using more efficient Airbus NEO aircraft, and implementing eco-piloting measures. They are also retrofitting their planes with flight optimisation technologies to reduce fuel usage and expect to reduce carbon emissions by 88,600 metric tons of CO2 annually.

Transitioning to direct carbon removal

In 2019, easyJet became the first airline to offset all its CO2 emissions. However, by 2022, the airline discontinued the programme and now aims to attain net-zero emissions through direct air carbon capture and storage technologies.

Exploration of diverse alternative technologies

easyJet is exploring different technologies for alternative aircraft, including the use of electric technology in their hydrogen planes. While they had previously partnered with Wright Electric for electric aircraft, they now believe that hydrogen propulsion is the way forward. However, they may still use high-power electric motors as part of a hybrid hydrogen solution in the future.

Innovation, collaboration, and industry leadership

Ashton's open-mindedness toward technological exploration, including potential hybrid hydrogen-electric solutions, showcases its agility in exploring and adopting innovative approaches. Ashton’s stance on industry collaboration reflects easyJet's proactive involvement in industry-wide initiatives through alliances like the Jet Zero Council, positioning the airline as a catalyst for industry-wide sustainability efforts.