JAL and ANA offer greener flight options

In the face of rising concerns about environmental degradation and a global move toward sustainability, two of Japan's top airlines have begun to transform their operations to greener practices. Japan Airlines has started experimentally operating what it calls a net-zero emissions charter flight, while All Nippon Airways has been using a "sharkskin" film that improves a plane's aerodynamics and allows less fuel to be burned. JAL operated its first such flight, from Haneda Airport in Tokyo to Naha Airport in Okinawa, on Nov. 18. With the one-day tour costing 25,000 yen ($189) per person, the flight was boarded by some 250 tour-goers. The plane flew on 40% sustainable aviation fuel made from a variety of sources including recycled waste oil. To achieve net zero, the carrier also "offsets" emissions by investing in forest preservation and taking other measures. The flight's offset costs roughly 330 yen per person. JAL said it is also counting its use of the Airbus A350, which is more fuel-efficient than conventional aircraft, as part of its carbon reduction. To cut fuel consumption, JAL said the plane taxied with one engine, instead of two usually, and ascended faster than usual after taking off. JAL's green efforts continued in-flight with an environment-friendly, meat-free menu. ANA has signaled its move toward a more sustainable future by operating aircraft painted green, rather than its usual blue. It started to fly its green jet internationally in October and another one domestically in November. Since November, its first domestic flight was fueled by SAF. ANA has also begun experimenting on increasing the aerodynamism of its planes to reduce fuel consumption by applying its sharkskin film on fuselages. It is also using headrest covers that are made from plants, rather than plastic materials, and are biodegradable.<br/>