WestJet has partnered with Aero Design Labs to modify their Boeing 737-700 NG aircraft for greater fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. Aero Design Labs has created the Aerodynamic Drag Reduction System (ADRS 1) for the Boeing 737-700 fleet.
On Monday (June 13, 2022), WestJet announced the launch of a new partnership with Aero Design Labs for the modification of their Boeing 737-700 NG fleet to increase fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. Aero Design labs has created the Aerodynamic Drag Reduction System (ADRS 1) for the Boeing 737-700 fleet, with WestJet serving as a key partner for the installation, certification and validation of the product. The carrier and Aero Design labs worked together to gather data and findings which drove additional feedback and modifications which will be added to the aircraft once approved and validated by Transport Canada.
In Monday’s announcment, WestJet’s Chief Operating Officer, Diederik Pen, said,
“With one of North America's youngest and most efficient fleets, WestJet continues to make significant investments to make air travel more sustainable. Through our innovative partnership with Aero Design Labs, we are currently testing a first-of-its kind product designed to reduce fuel burn and improve the efficiency and longevity of our 737-700s.”
Also commenting on the collaboration, Aero Design Labs’ Chief Commercial Officer, Chris Jones, added,
“We are delighted that WestJet as the largest 737NG operator in Canada chose to partner with ADL as the launch customer on the 737-700 using our ADRS1 Kit that we have developed for the 737NG family. WestJet clearly shares our enthusiasm and conviction toward reducing carbon emissions. This starts the journey today towards WestJet's commitment to net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.”
WestJet’s partnership with Aero Design Labs is part of the carrier’s commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. Following regulatory approvals, both partners will continue working together to determine further fleet implementation plans, while validating data and efficiency findings.
In over 25 years of service, WestJet has cut airfares for Canadians in half and increased the flying population around Canada by over 50 percent. The airline launched in 1996 with three aircraft, 250 employees and five destinations, and has now grown to more than 180 aircraft and 14,000 employees, offering service to 100 destinations in 23 countries (pre-pandemic). Even during the pandemic, WestJet maintained their rating by Cirium as one of the top ten airlines for on-time performance in North America.
Source: WestJet/CNW