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2024-01-01

Textron Fuels Change with Carbon-Crushing Initiative

Textron Aviation, a leader in general aviation, is pioneering a new path in sustainability with the launch of its SustainableAdvantage programme. The innovative programme, starting in January, empowers Cessna, Beechcraft, and Hawker owners to reduce their carbon footprint through certified carbon offsets.

In partnership with 4AIR, a renowned sustainability solutions provider, SustainableAdvantage offers a seamless way to offset carbon emissions from aircraft operations.

Beechcraft, Cessna and Hawker customers receive factory-direct support, maintenance and modifications by Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. company, through its global network of service and part centres, mobile service units and 24/7 1CALL Aircraft on Ground (AOG) support.

SustainableAdvantage focuses on balancing an aircraft’s carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions with other means of CO2 reductions across the world. This balance is one way aircraft owners can work with the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) to meet their sustainability goals.

To ensure accuracy and accountability, the carbon footprint of each flight is measured and Textron Aviation purchases verified carbon credits on behalf of the owner. These credits offset the specific CO2 emissions.

As a programme participant, an aircraft owner can expect to obtain verified, detailed calculations of their individual journey to their Sustainability goals from Textron Aviation in a personalised annual report.

“Owners have increasingly become interested in solutions that mitigate the carbon footprint of operating their aircraft,” said Brad White, senior vice president, Global Parts and Programs, Textron Aviation. “SustainableAdvantage provides them the opportunity to have a seamless option to offset their carbon emissions through a Textron Aviation approved programme and supplier.”

Sustainable Integration

The company integrates SustainableAdvantage into its user-friendly ProAdvantage programmes, linking owners to 4AIR. Owners can opt for 100 per cent footprint offset through 4AIR’s Bronze Level, reducing emissions elsewhere to counter aircraft operational carbon footprints.

Nancy Bsales, chief operating officer, 4AIR, stated: “Our relationship with Textron Aviation acknowledges the many strides we have made in the industry to make sustainability more accessible. We are excited to provide Cessna, Beechcraft and Hawker owners with sustainable solutions that address and meet their environmental commitments and goals.”

4AIR will provide owners who choose to join SustainableAdvantage a personalised, annual report that will document offset purchases. It offers monitoring and compliance reporting requirements for the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA) and the European Union, French and United Kingdom Emissions Trading System (ETS) as well as other ESG reporting requirements.

Aligned with Textron Inc., Textron Aviation has set enterprise-wide five-year goals: a 20 per cent cut in greenhouse gas emissions and 10 per cent reduction in energy consumption, water use, and waste generation by 2025. Moreover, the majority of the company’s Kansas electricity is sourced from renewable wind energy.

Robust investments in Textron Aviation’s products and facilities encourage sustainability in its designs and operations. The Beechcraft Denali and Cessna Citation Ascend highlight the company’s commitment to reducing emissions and improving efficiency through its new aircraft projects. Customers can take delivery of their aircraft using sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and they can also refuel with it at Textron Aviation’s service centre in Wichita, Kansas.

Propulsion Initiatives

Textron Aviation actively promotes sustainable propulsion solutions like hydrogen-electric and hybrid-electric.

Its global service network achieved recertification from the National Air Transportation Association (NATA) as a Green Aviation Business, and from National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) for enhanced sustainability in ground support efforts. The Textron Aviation Service Centre in Wichita, Kansas, offers SAF as part of the regular customer service experience.

Textron Aviation is also pursuing sustainable solutions throughout the interior of our aircraft cabins, utilising green materials in textiles, carpets and wood veneers. Sourcing biodegradable materials with long life spans and clean manufacturing processes, such as aviation grade leather, contributes to mindful sustainable design.

Textron says it prioritises material sourcing from responsibly managed forests and optimises surplus inventory to further minimise their environmental impact.

In a significant move in 2022, Textron acquired PIPISTREL, a renowned name in electrically powered aircraft. This strategic acquisition marked the inaugural stride towards reshaping the future of aviation. With PIPISTREL’s expertise in electric aircraft technology now within Textron’s fold, it signalled the initiation of an exciting new chapter in the evolution of flight.

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