Airbus plans to replace its current transatlantic fleet with newer, more environmentally friendly ships. These ships will generate 50% less CO2 emissions by 2030 compared to the emissions in 2023.
Airbus will replace the fleet of chartered vessels used to transport aircraft subassemblies between European and United States production facilities with three modern roll-on/roll-off vessels. These new ships feature wind-assisted propulsion, making them highly efficient and low-emission. Shipowner Louis Dreyfus Armateurs will construct, own, and operate these ships. They will be in service by 2026. The new fleet will significantly reduce transatlantic CO2 emissions from 68,000 to 33,000 tonnes annually by 2030. This initiative aligns with Airbus‘ commitment to reduce its overall industrial emissions by up to 63% by 2030, based on 2015 levels, following the Paris Agreement’s 1.5°C pathway.
“The renewal of our marine fleet is a major step forward in reducing our environmental impact,” said Nicolas Chrétien, Head of Sustainability & Environment at Airbus. “The latest generation of vessels proposed by Louis Dreyfus Armateurs are more fuel efficient than their predecessors, using cutting-edge technologies like wind-assisted propulsion. This demonstrates our determination to lead the way in decarbonizing our sector by innovating not just in aviation but across all our industrial operations.”
“We are very pleased to have been selected by Airbus to develop this state-of-the-art and low-emission fleet and to continue our longstanding partnership,” said Edouard Louis-Dreyfus, President, Louis Dreyfus Armateurs. “This new project, setting high targets, reflects our ambition regarding the decarbonization of the shipping industry. We are proud to support our customers in their energy transition, going even beyond their expectations by offering innovative solutions and sustainably driving change.”
Eco-Friendly Charter Vessels Support Growth of Eco-Friendly Aircraft
Airbus is planning to replace its existing chartered vessels that transport aircraft subassemblies from Saint-Nazaire, France to its assembly line in Mobile, Alabama. The company will gradually introduce new vessels that incorporate innovative technologies for a more efficient and sustainable transportation process.
The new vessels will feature six Flettner rotors, which are large rotating cylinders that generate lift from the wind. Alongside these rotors, dual-fuel engines run on a mixture of maritime diesel oil and e-methanol to power these vessels. This combination of wind propulsion and engines will ensure optimal performance while minimizing environmental impact.
To further enhance efficiency, the vessels will utilize sophisticated routing software. This software will calculate the most advantageous route across the Atlantic, taking into account wind patterns and avoiding unfavorable ocean conditions that could cause drag.
By upgrading its fleet, Airbus aims to support its goal of increasing production rates for the A320 family of aircraft to 75 units per month by 2026. The new vessels will have a significantly greater capacity compared to the current cargo ships, enabling them to transport around seventy 40-foot containers and six sets of single-aisle aircraft subassemblies (including wings, fuselage, engine pylons, and tailplanes). This upgrade will enhance logistics and contribute to a smoother and more efficient assembly process.
About Louis Dreyfus Armateurs
LOUIS DREYFUS ARMATEURS Group (LDA) has been serving the maritime industry for over 170 years. They offer a wide range of services, including ship design, ship management, transport, logistics, submarine cables, and renewable energy solutions. With a global presence, LDA has a team of over 2,600 professionals and a fleet of 100 vessels. For more details, please visit their website at www.lda.fr.