A Qualitative Assessment of a Full-Service Network Airline Sustainable Energy Management: The Case of Finnair PLC

Abstract

Airlines are extremely energy intensive. Around the world airlines are increasingly focusing on the environmentally sustainable energy management. Using a qualitative longitudinal case study research approach, this study examines Finnair’s sustainable energy management over the period 2010 to 2019. The airline’s major energy source is jet fuel used for the operation of the airline’s aircraft fleet and the electricity which is used to power its facilities located at Helsinki Airport. The study found that Finnair’s annual jet fuel consumption has grown throughout the study due to the airline’s route network and aircraft fleet expansion. The fuel required for ground vehicles has risen reflecting greater operational requirements due to the company’s expansion. The annual consumption of electricity and electricity for heating has displayed a general downward trend during the study period. The annual electricity per passenger has also decreased despite the large growth in passenger numbers. Finnair has increased its use of renewable energy sources for its flight and ground operations. A key energy saving strategy has been the acquisition and operation of a modern state-of-the-art, fuel efficient aircraft fleet.