EasyJet equips pilots with app to cut fuel and emissions

EasyJet is working with aviation technology provider i6 Group to deploy its eHandshake digital refuelling platform across the airline’s network, modernising the way fuel is ordered, delivered and verified.

Specifically, easyJet will integrate i6 Group’s eHandshake technology into its existing ETechlog pilot platform, enabling easyJet pilots to order their fuel and confirm the amount digitally, giving them more accurate information to reduce fuel consumption and cut emissions, potentially leading to as much as 10,000 tonnes of Co2 saved per year.

Why the app will contribute to operational efficiency gains

The initiative forms part of easyJet’s ongoing focus on improving data quality, reducing unnecessary fuel uplift and driving greater operational efficiency across its network. By replacing paper-based processes with a single digital fuel workflow, the platform connects pilots, fuel suppliers and operational teams in real time, streamlining communication and improving the accuracy of fuel ordering and delivery. The move will also save an estimated 600,00 sheets of paper each year in the process.

The technology will also support greater visibility and control over fuel uplift across the operation, helping ensure aircraft receive the necessary amount of fuel required, leading to reductions both in cost and emissions by avoiding unnecessary aircraft weight and the additional fuel burn that comes with carrying it.

The platform will be integrated into easyJet’s pilot technology systems and introduced through a phased rollout – with initial deployment covering approximately half of the airline’s network and expected to expand to around 90% of destinations over the next three years.

Introducing innovative tech to help reduce the environmental impact of aviation

Adam Baker, Head of Fuel Performance at easyJet, said: “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.

“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.”

Operational efficiency improvements like digital fuelling are a key part of easyJet’s net zero roadmap. The airline remains committed to decarbonising its fleet and remains on track to meet its ambitious target of a 35% reduction in carbon emissions intensity by 2035.

How the digital platform processes accurate data

The platform creates a complete digital audit trail of each refuelling event, recording fuel planned, fuel requested, fuel delivered and fuel accepted.

Under the new digital process, pilots will submit fuel requests electronically, allowing refuelling providers to receive accurate information before arriving at the aircraft, which could help reduce delays. The fuel deliveries will be recorded digitally and confirmed by pilots through the system, creating a complete record of every stage of the refuelling process.

The data will then be stored centrally, providing greater transparency and enabling detailed analysis and verification where required.

Alex Mattos, CEO & Co-founder, i6 Group said: “By integrating eHandshake into the technology pilots already use, fuel information can be shared and verified digitally between pilots, fuel providers and operational teams.

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

By providing this single source of verified data, the system will improve fuel data accuracy, strengthen invoice verification and help reduce operational inefficiencies associated with manual processes.