On a mission to save the planet, United Airlines is taking the green revolution sky-high with its latest announcement. The airline is investing big bucks to help decarbonize aviation, making your next in-flight meal the only thing you’ll feel guilty about while flying.
United Airlines’ new fund aims to reduce aviation’s carbon footprint, with a starting investment of $100 million from corporate partners such as JP Morgan Chase, Air Canada, and Honeywell. The airline intends to use the fund to support sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) startups and secure long-term fuel contracts.
How does this sustainable flight fund affect travelers?
United announced it will start displaying emissions estimates to customers who purchase tickets through the airline’s website. Passengers who buy tickets on United’s website or app can now opt to support the airline’s investment in the SAF venture fund by paying an additional $1, $3.50, or $7 at checkout. The first 10,000 individuals who donate will earn 500 MileagePlus Miles as a gesture of appreciation.
“United alone is not going to be able to shift the dial on decarbonization solutions for all of aviation”, shared Lauren Riley, United’s chief sustainability officer. She added that the airline is also working with other aviation stakeholders through the International Air Transport Association (IATA) on an industry standard for emissions reporting.
United Airlines’ goal is to achieve complete sustainability by cutting its greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, without resorting to conventional carbon offsets. I am all for sustainable travel because I don’t want to think about having to explain what a snowman used to look like to my grandkids.
by travelers, for travelers.
