Virgin America becomes first commercial passenger airline to join EPA Climate Leaders Programme

Airline Industry Information, Oct 9, 2008

AIRLINE INDUSTRY INFORMATION-(C)1997-2008 M2 COMMUNICATIONS LTD

Virgin America, a Californian commercial passenger airline, has announced that it has become a member of the US Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Climate Leaders programme, in which government and industry collaborate to develop comprehensive climate change strategies.

As the first domestic airline to join the Climate Leaders programme, the company said it has committed to reducing its impact on the environment, beginning with an inventory of its greenhouse gas emissions, led by the EPA. Following on from the results of the inventory, Virgin America will work with EPA to set carbon reduction goals and make annual progress reports.

Virgin America stated that, since its launch in August 2007, it is 30% more fuel and carbon efficient than the average domestic fleet. It includes sustainable practices in its training and operations and uses the latest aircraft and engine technology alongside practising single engine taxiing, maximising the use of airport ground power, idle reverse landings and regulating cruising speeds to reduce fuel burn and carbon emissions.

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