From repurposed planes and the use of new technology to a milestone flight using biofuel, a key aviation session at the recent World Travel Market London heard how established and new airlines are working towards a more sustainable future.

Dom Kennedy, SVP Revenue Management, Distribution and Holidays, at Virgin Atlantic, highlighted how the carrier was on track to operate a transatlantic flight powered 100% by sustainable aviation (the flight successfully took place late last month), adding, “It is a milestone in the UK industry.”

Meanwhile, Simon McNamara, Director of Government and Industry Affairs at Heart Aerospace, a Swedish start-up, explained hot the company is developing 30-seater electric powered aircraft for regional routes of up to 200 km. Its aircraft are expected to enter service in 2028 and the aim is to boost regional connectivity where many routes have been lost.

James Asquith, founder of Global Atlantic, explained how he has bought double-decker A380 aircraft, giving them a “new lease of life” with his start-up airline.

“It is a palace of the sky [and] it has to be on time and reliable,” he said. “What we are doing is not necessarily innovative but we’re almost rolling back the clock. We are very confident that we have done it in the right way.”

He said money has come from investors, shareholders, venture capitalists and family – but added: “There will be planes in the sky sooner than people may think.”

Vincente Coste, Chief Commercial Officer, Riyadh Air, said his start-up airline aims to begin flying in the second quarter of 2025. It is a part of Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia’s push to develop different parts of its economy, including tourism.

Coste also highlighted a focus on developing technology to sell tickets via mobiles as the average age of the population is 29 and there is a high penetration of iPhones.