An expert’s insights highlight immediate and future solutions, including alternative fuels, electrification, and digitalization, to address aviation’s environmental challenges
As demand for air travel continues to surge, the need for effective decarbonization strategies and innovative solutions has never been more critical.
In a rapidly expanding aviation landscape, the push for sustainability is a key topic of discussion among industry leaders. Caught up in the urgency is Shantanu Gangakhedhar, Senior Consultant and Airports Lead, Frost & Sullivan, who advises on how governments, regulators, airlines and aircraft manufacturers can collaborate to drive sustainable practices in the sector.
Here is the gist of what Gangakhedhar envisions for the future of aviation, focusing on strategies for decarbonization, the challenges surrounding sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs) and hydrogen-powered aircraft, besides the role of digital transformation in improving airside operations.
The long and short of aviation sustainability
In an email interview with DigiconAsia, Gangakhedhar offered three strategies for the short- to long- term that he has gleaned from his professional insights:
- Short-term solutions: Addressing fuel efficiency transformation
Gangakhedhar stressed the importance of improving fuel efficiency in the immediate future. “Aircraft manufacturers can reduce drag and weight by employing innovative materials and designing more efficient engines. Airlines can also play a part by implementing advanced flight planning solutions that reduce fuel consumption during flights. Additionally, airports should focus on reducing airside emissions by switching to electric ground support equipment and regulating power consumption.” - Medium-term strategy: Scaling sustainable aviation fuels
In the medium term, Shantanu highlighted the role of Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF), stating: “While SAF is still in its early stages, its widespread deployment could significantly reduce emissions. However, several challenges remain, such as limited supply and high costs — SAF is currently priced two to four times higher than traditional jet fuel. The establishment of SAF production plants requires substantial investment, and securing a sustainable feedstock source remains an ongoing hurdle.” - Long-term vision: Leveraging electric and hydrogen-powered aircraft
Gangakhedhar envisioned a long-term future wherein electric and hydrogen-powered aircraft could eliminate the need for conventional jet fuel altogether. However, he acknowledged that the development of hydrogen-powered aircraft is still in its nascent stages. “The technology is far from being ready for large-scale deployment, with certification and safety being major barriers to adoption. Moreover, the necessary infrastructure, such as hydrogen storage and refueling systems, would require significant investment from airports.”
If no urgent interventions take place…
According to Gangakhedhar’s research, as air travel continues to grow, particularly in the Asia Pacific region, the potential environmental impact from current pollution could be devastating if no urgent intervention take place.
At this juncture, the hurdles preventing timely and properly-scaled interventions revolve around balancing the growth of the industry (after the effects of the three-year-long COVID-19 pandemic) with global sustainability objectives. “While the aviation industry aims for net-zero emissions by 2050, more concerted action is needed across regions to ensure that this goal is realized.”
Based on his short- to long- term prognosis of coordinate industry initiatives to comply with evolving regulations and keep airlines profitable, Gangakhedhar is hopeful that the relentless push for digital transformation is helping to lubricate the conflicting interests that may slow down timely interventions:
- In APAC, the use of autonomous GSE, robotics and digital twin technology is improving efficiency, safety and sustainability. These innovations help airports manage operations in real time, reducing energy consumption, improving turnaround times and minimizing delays.
- With passenger and cargo volumes expected to grow exponentially in the region, automation and robotics are becoming essential for addressing workforce shortages and meeting rising demand. Autonomous GSE, automated baggage handling and AI-driven systems for predictive operations are helping airports maintain efficiency, while minimizing downtime.
- Furthermore, AI and big data analytics are becoming increasingly essential in streamlining operations, allowing airports to prepare the necessary resources before they are needed.
Next-gen tech awaits
Looking ahead, Gangakhedhar is predicting that drone technology will play a larger role in airside operations, particularly for safety checks. “These drones could assist in turn-around inspections and improve overall efficiency. Additionally, the deployment of smart lighting could help reduce power consumption, while also supporting aircraft navigation during taxiing and parking.”
The implementation of intelligent, scalable next-gen systems, he said, will be crucial in ensuring that the industry remains sustainable, efficient, and future-ready.
Further reading
For readers interested in the policy, regulatory, and technological frameworks shaping aviation’s net-zero future, the following resources provide in-depth, non-commercial insights:
