Lufthansa Cargo saves 25,000 tonnes of CO2 with sustainability efforts

Lufthansa Cargo took significant steps in 2024 to reduce its carbon footprint, reinforcing its commitment to making air freight more sustainable. The company, which has long prioritised environmental responsibility, focused on cutting emissions through modern aircraft, fuel-efficient operations, and the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).

Nicole Mies, Head of Communications & Corporate Social Responsibility at Lufthansa Cargo, highlighted the airline’s progress, stating, “We want to take responsibility and drive forward our ambitious climate targets. In 2024, we worked closely with customers, partners, and researchers to explore new possibilities and make meaningful progress. We haven’t reached every goal yet, but we are continuously working towards a more efficient and innovative airfreight system.”

Investing in a greener fleet
Aircraft are the biggest contributors to an airline’s carbon footprint, and Lufthansa Cargo has been upgrading its fleet to tackle this issue. The company exclusively operates Boeing 777F freighters, which are among the most fuel-efficient cargo planes in the industry. In mid-2024, Lufthansa Cargo welcomed its 18th Boeing 777F to Frankfurt Airport, and by 2030, it expects to add seven more Boeing 777-8 freighters, which come with the latest fuel-saving technology. These new-generation aircraft use up to 30% less fuel than older models, significantly cutting emissions.

Sustainable fuel and smarter flying
One of the most impactful ways to reduce aviation emissions is through SAF, a fuel made from biogenic residues that has 80% lower carbon emissions than traditional kerosene. Lufthansa Cargo expanded its “Sustainable Choice” programme, allowing customers to support decarbonisation by opting for SAF-powered flights. In 2024, this initiative alone helped save approximately 8,500 tonnes of CO₂.

The airline also focused on optimising flight operations to improve fuel efficiency. By implementing smarter fuel planning methods and reducing unnecessary fuel reserves, Lufthansa Cargo saved 5,700 tonnes of kerosene last year, equivalent to cutting 18,000 tonnes of CO₂. One key initiative, Statistical Contingency Fuel (SCF), fine-tunes the amount of extra fuel needed for each flight by analysing historical data and real-time conditions.

Additionally, the airline improved ground fuel efficiency with techniques like “Reduced Engine during Taxi In” (RETI), which involves shutting down one engine during taxiing. This simple adjustment saved 400 tonnes of fuel and cut CO₂ emissions by 1,200 tonnes annually.

Sustainability beyond the skies
Lufthansa Cargo’s green efforts go beyond flight operations. On the ground, the company has committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2030. One major step was switching its company car fleet at Frankfurt Airport to electric vehicles. The first batch of new EVs arrived in 2024, supported by the installation of six charging stations across two buildings.

The airline also tackled waste reduction by recycling old cargo belts in partnership with the Rhein-Main Association of Sheltered Workshops (WfB). The belts are repurposed into construction safety barriers and insulation panels, while the metal components are recycled. These efforts help reduce waste and support sustainability in ground operations.

Researching climate-friendly flight paths
In 2024, Lufthansa Cargo played a key role in a government-backed research initiative called the “100 Flights Programme.” The project, run in collaboration with Lufthansa Airlines and other German carriers, explored ways to reduce the environmental impact of condensation trails (contrails), which contribute to climate change.

The airline adjusted flight altitudes on 13 selected routes to test whether these changes could prevent contrail formation. Satellite data was used to monitor results, and findings from the study will help improve future flight planning to minimise climate impact.

A team effort for a sustainable future
Lufthansa Cargo knows that achieving long-term sustainability requires collaboration across industries. In 2024, the airline joined the Smart Freight Centre (SFC), a global non-profit focused on cutting greenhouse gas emissions in freight transport. The partnership aligns with Lufthansa Cargo’s mission to create a zero-emission logistics sector by 2050.

With a mix of technological advancements, operational improvements, and strategic partnerships, Lufthansa Cargo is steadily moving towards a more sustainable air cargo industry. While there’s still a long way to go, the company’s 2024 achievements mark a strong step in the right direction.