EasyJet lightens load with new seats, trollies, sharklets

Low-cost carrier easyJet is introducing a set of measures that will improve fuel efficiency and reduce CO2 emissions through a new, lighter seat and lightweight trolleys along with aerodynamic improvements like sharklets, an enlarged wing tip which makes the wing more efficient.

The new Recaro seats will be fitted onto 14 new aircraft to be delivered until the end of next summer, the first of which will enter service this month. Sharklets will be fitted on all new aircraft deliveries from August, with eight being delivered by the end of summer next year. The new lightweight trolleys will be used on all easyJet’s 214 aircraft from this month.

EasyJet’s annual fuel bill is around GBP 1.2 bln with the annual fuel saving estimated at 2.7 mln, while the company claims that its passenger’s carbon footprint is already 22% less than a passenger on a traditional airline flying on the same route and aircraft.

Other efficiency and cost-saving measures include one engine taxiing, delayed engine starts, continuous descent approach and minimum use of the Auxiliary Power Unit when on the ground.