Switzerland International Airlines (Swiss) has reduced the amount of fuel it consumes per passenger by nearly 4%.
In 2010 the airline's aircraft used up 3.73 litres per 100 passenger-kilometres, down from 3.88 litres in 2009.
The Lufthansa-owned airline said the reduction is down to a newer fleet, and to a number of green endeavours.
Harry Hohmeister, Swiss' CEO, said the reduction was “sizeable”.
“[It] shows just how seriously we take our task of making mobility as eco-friendly as possible,” he said.
The achievement is a step towards the International Air Travel Association's goal of increasing fuel efficiency by 25% by 2020, compared to 2005 levels.
“Maintaining a responsible attitude towards the environment has been a cornerstone of our corporate culture for several years now,” said Hohmeister.
Since 2002, Swiss has reduced its fuel consumption per 100 passenger-kilometres by more than 17%.
Hohmeister said: “Swiss' specific fuel emissions are among the lowest in the industry; and this confirms to us that our investments in environmental care are well worthwhile.”
Since 2009, Swiss has gradually been replacing its Airbus A330-200 fleet with new A330-300 aircraft, which the airline said consumes 12% less fuel per passenger.
The airline has pledged to devote two-thirds of its investments to “technological innovations”, which will contribute to a reduction in its CO2 emissions.
www.swiss.com