Sustainability and Social Responsibility at Widerøe

While awaiting fossil-free technology, we acquire newer used aircraft, extend their lifespans, and conduct repairs. Turboprop technology emits the least CO2 for most of Widerøe's flights. Producing entirely new aircraft also generates emissions. By extending the lifespan of aircraft, we reduce emissions associated with manufacturing and minimize the number of new fossil-fuel-powered aircraft entering service.

• We install advanced navigation equipment in existing aircraft, enabling the use of new flight paths that save between 1-4 minutes of flight time, resulting in emissions reductions.
• The upgraded equipment includes an enhanced weather radar, allowing flights to avoid unnecessary distances, saving fuel and reducing emissions. Better weather data enables pilots to land with reduced visibility, decreasing the need for circling before landing. This reduces overflights and returns due to adverse weather conditions.
• An automated planning system helps pilots optimize flight routes for minimal emissions. It considers weather conditions, headwinds, aircraft weight, airspace restrictions, and arrival times. The system calculates the best routes and speeds for the lowest fuel consumption.
• Smart flying using the planning system reduces fuel consumption by 10%.
• Upgrading the fleet with advanced navigation equipment and further system refinements are expected to yield additional emission reductions in the coming years.

• The Embraer E2 aircraft type is top of their class when it comes to emission reductions. In 2018, Widerøe acquired three jets of this type, which are 17% more efficient than comparable jets in their class, resulting in lower fuel consumption and emissions. These aircraft are optimized for the airline's operations, focusing on using the right aircraft size.
• By the end of 2023, Widerøe will replace parts of the fleet with more efficient Dash 8 Q400, 78-seat aircraft. Consolidating to fewer aircraft models streamlines operations and efficiency. Six Q400 aircraft will replace the smaller 50-seat models. The Q400 aircraft have lower emissions per offered seat.
• Using aircraft of the right size and type, combined with turboprop technology, maximizes CO2 savings with current technology.

We have adjusted flight schedules to avoid the need for faster flights to meet arrival times. This can result in up to a 1.4% reduction in CO2 emissions for our DH8-400 fleet.

Increased use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) is crucial for Widerøe until we can replace our current fleet with electric aircraft.

• SAF is an alternative to fossil fuels and can be derived from biomass or synthesized through specific processes.
• SAF significantly reduces CO2 emissions and can be used in current aircraft.
• Norwegian authorities have set requirements for blending SAF into aviation fuel. We expect these requirements to increase gradually, potentially reaching 20% by 2035 and 70% by 2050.
• Widerøe aims to exceed regulatory requirements for SAF use, contingent upon a climate partnership with authorities to facilitate increased production and reduced prices for this type of fuel.
• Customers can purchase sustainable aviation fuel for their journeys when buying tickets from Widerøe.

• Instead of investing in new aircraft that will fly for at least 30 more years, Widerøe recycles usable parts from decommissioned aircraft and uses them in active aircraft. This maximizes the utilization of aircraft lifespan and promotes reuse while adhering to strict aviation safety regulations.
• Widerøe's short-haul fleet is due for replacement. Buying new aircraft with outdated technology is not an option for Widerøe. While awaiting the technological shift, we opt for used aircraft. We source used aircraft globally, ensuring they are in good condition and have ample lifespan left. In collaboration with the aircraft manufacturer, we upgrade and extensively service these aircraft to prolong their lifespan safely and in a sustainable manner.
  
• Purchasing used aircraft is advantageous both for the environment and the economy. The savings from acquiring used aircraft enable investments in initiatives like Widerøe Zero, which is essential for accelerating the industry's green transformation. The upcoming technological shift will be costly, and every penny is necessary to facilitate this anticipated investment.
  
• We are holding off on purchasing new aircraft until technology that significantly reduces emissions becomes available. Presently, no approved alternative aircraft types can be used on short runways. The specific characteristics required for aircraft operating on Norway's short runways make this a unique challenge.
  

Widerøe sets standards for our suppliers, emphasizing their efforts to prevent and rectify negative impacts on working conditions, human rights, and the environment when selecting suppliers.