easyJet has made aviation history by initiating the trial of cutting-edge paint technology aimed at reducing emissions and enabling significant fuel savings. Partnering with Mankiewicz Aviation Coatings, on January 3, 2025, the airline unveiled plans to revolutionize its livery by introducing a novel lower-weight paint solution. This innovative system requires less paint than traditional methods, marking a crucial step towards eco-friendly operations.

Director of Sustainability at easyJet, Lahiru Ranasinghe, remarked, “easyJet is unwavering in its commitment to exploring innovative ways to minimize our environmental footprint. Our collaboration with Mankiewicz Aviation Coatings to develop this lightweight paint is a testament to our holistic approach in seeking efficiency improvements across all facets of our operations.”

Upon full integration across the fleet by 2029, easyJet foresees remarkable benefits from the new lightweight paint system, estimating annual fuel savings of up to 1,296 tons and a substantial reduction of 4,095 tons in CO2 emissions. The reduced weight of approximately 27 kilograms per aircraft, achieved through the application of the new paint, presents a promising avenue for mitigating carbon emissions in the aviation industry when combined with other fuel-saving initiatives.

Partnering with MAAS Aviation, an MRO specialist based in Dublin, easyJet is conducting trials of the new paint solution at its Maastricht facility. With 38 aircraft already painted, the airline anticipates fleet-wide implementation by 2030. Highlighting the immediate benefits, easyJet notes that the painted planes are already demonstrating fuel efficiency gains owing to their lighter coating.

Driven by a dedication to environmental stewardship, easyJet aims to pioneer sustainable practices within the aviation sector. Its recent deployment of Descent Profile Optimization (DPO) software fleet-wide culminated in a significant reduction in carbon intensity during FY24, setting a new standard for operational sustainability. Through initiatives like lightweight paint technology and advanced software solutions, easyJet is steadfast in its mission to lead the charge in decarbonizing air travel.