How Airlines Are Observing Earth Day in 2024

Commercial airlines and protecting the environment are not usually thought of as two things that go well together. Aviation accounts for 2.5% of global CO₂ emissions, but it has contributed about 4% to global warming to date. Many airlines offer carbon offsets with each flight and for Earth Day, several are highlighting recent achievements, sales, and more.

We’re proud to have been the first U.S. airline to eliminate single-use plastic cups on board, reducing waste of approximately 55 million plastic cups annually. Combined with our partnership with @boxedwater, we’ve prevented 2.2 million lbs of plastic waste! pic.twitter.com/1TPKRPRg63

— Alaska Airlines (@AlaskaAir) April 22, 2024

Alaska Airlines

Alaska was the first US carrier to eliminate single-use plastic cups in flight. This meant that 55 million less were used each year. Along with a partnership with Boxed Water, the airline has reduced 22 million pounds of plastic waste.

Adventure is calling, and national parks are the answer! 🌲✈️ Explore the wonders of nature and help the National Park Foundation preserve and enhance the parks by donating to Miles for Our Planet this #EarthDay. 🏞️ 💚 https://t.co/dp6NiELHaH pic.twitter.com/p5k7WAi3mS

— americanair (@AmericanAir) April 22, 2024

American Airlines

American has partnered with the National Park Foundation and made it easy for AAdvantage members to donate miles to support its preservation efforts.

Happy Earth Day 🌍! As we carry on our journey to fly #GreenerTogether, we are actively seeking ways to reduce our carbon footprint from air travel. pic.twitter.com/kNucdq4SHB

— Cathay Pacific (@cathaypacific) April 22, 2024

Cathay Pacific

Cathay Pacific has multiple green initiatives including using more reusable cutlery, introducing paper cups, and partnered with local restaurants for more sustainable, plant based meals.

♻️ONE DAY ONLY EARTH DAY SALE♻️

Frontier Airlines is 43% more fuel-efficient than other airlines. We're celebrating with round-trip flights from $43* to some of your favorite destinations! 🏖️ Book now: https://t.co/UsE7MDUbNt

*Terms and conditions apply. pic.twitter.com/TiXKzsWz3N

— Frontier Airlines (@FlyFrontier) April 22, 2024

Frontier Airlines

I’m not sure how this is measured, but Frontier claims to be 43% more fuel efficient than other airlines and is offering a $43 sale for roundtrip airfare today.

Yellow will always be our favorite color, but we’re committed to making our future greener! 🌎

With one of the youngest and most fuel-efficient fleets in the U.S, our efforts to preserve the planet are paving the way towards a greener future.

We’re dedicated to our planet as… pic.twitter.com/sRMPerM5Lm

— Spirit Airlines (@SpiritAirlines) April 22, 2024

Spirit Airlines

Spirit has one of the youngest and most fuel-efficient fleets in the US. The low-cost carrier encourages employees to continue to participate in sustainable efforts throughout the year such as tree planting and ocean cleanups.

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The world is yours to explore! From natural wonders to cultural marvels, the world continuously unveils new and exciting adventures. Go ahead and embark on a journey of discovery! Happy Earth Day!#TurkishAirlines #EarthDay pic.twitter.com/yp5ebjpGZb

— Turkish Airlines (@TurkishAirlines) April 22, 2024

Turkish Airlines

While Turkish Airlines social post doesn’t call out any specific initiatives, I included it for its beautiful imagery of some of the world’s natural and historical beauty.

Anthony’s Take: Climate change is real and the Earth is warming. Everyone can do their part (even airlines) to help offset the effects of aircraft around the globe.

(Featured Image Credit: Fateme Alaie.)