Chicago-based United Airlines appears to be dressing its upcoming 787 delivery in a new SAF-themed livery. Aviation insider JonNYC shared on his Twitter page today.
Just last month, United was the first carrier to commit to using Sustainable Aviation Fuel from one of its bases, Chicago O’Hare. It has committed to buying up to one million gallons of SAF from Neste MY. Chicago O’Hare International Airport
will become the fifth airport in the airline’s network to use the alternative fuel, further committing to its net zero goal of reducing emissions by 2050 without relying on carbon offsets.
N24988 has been spotted
The latest aircraft to roll out of the paint shop is the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, which currently holds United States registration N24988. This aircraft, initially built in Charleston, will be configured in a three-class layout with the following seating capacity:
- 48 Business class
- 21 Premium Economy
- 188 Economy class
As Simple Flying reported last year, the Star Alliance carrier is looking to use the popular wide-body variant to replace its aging Boeing 757 and 767 fleet as it continues to expand its international network. Using these aircraft on popular routes, enables the carrier to operate more frequently, with more capacity. The 787 will ensure United has enough capacity to cater to the demand, even where no more services can be added.
Sustainable Aviation Fuel at one of the world’s largest carriers
United has a vision to become a leader in using Sustainable Aviation Fuel
(SAF), further outlining its purpose of connecting people and uniting the world. Committing to mitigating environmental concerns means also understanding greenhouse gases’ environmental impact.
The airline has committed to holding itself accountable and working with stakeholders to chart a more sustainable course for air travel in the future. Aviation plays a large factor in contributing to climate change, and the airline has taken the responsibility to try to solve it.
Photo: Nieuwland Photography | Shutterstock
United Airlines is embracing the goal of being 100% green by 2050 and reducing its greenhouse gas emissions by 100% in that timeframe.
Everyone can take their part
For the world to ‘go green,’ it all starts with fuel. SAF is a low-carbon alternative to normal jet fuel that can be used to fuel aircraft without requiring significant modification. SAF by United can lower emissions by up to 85%, and this is not just limited to fueling the aircraft itself but also its production and transport to the airport.
Currently, at United, just 0.1% of fuel used is SAF. During the booking process, travelers can offset their carbon emissions
on their next booking; this is one small step you can make to help the movement.