The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has obtained China’s approval to implement a new route for international traffic which reduces flight times between China and Europe by an average of…
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has obtained China’s approval to implement a new route for international traffic which reduces flight times between China and Europe by an average of 30 minutes. Officially known as Y-1, it is often referred to as IATA-1, reflecting IATA’s role in achieving this in cooperation with the Chinese Government. Initially 110 flights a week could potentially benefit from IATA-1.
An inauguration ceremony was held in Beijing with the route expected to open for commercial traffic from 13 April 2006, following discussions dating back to 2000. Y-1, combined with Y-2 provides airlines with more route options when flying between Asia and Europe, allowing airlines to better optimise routings.
“IATA-1 will result in US$30 million in savings on the airlines fuel bill. We appreciate the cooperation of the Chinese Government in making airspace more efficient at a time where the airline industry is bleeding red ink from the record high price of oil,” said Giovanni Bisignani, IATA’s Director General and CEO.
IATA-1 will have a significant impact on the environment. The more direct routing will eliminate 2,860 hours of flight time, 27,000 tonnes of fuel consumption, 84,800 tonnes of carbon dioxide emission, and 340,000 kilogrammes of nitrogen oxides emission annually.
“Airlines take their commitment to the environment seriously. While supporting 8% of global economic activity, air transport is responsible for 3.5% of global greenhouse emissions. This is a good record, but we are determined to do more. Fuel efficiency, direct routings and new technology are all part of efforts that have realised a 70% reduction in aircraft emissions over the last 30 years. IATA-1 is a great example of how cooperation of industry and government is a winning solution for all,” said Bisignani
“The new routes further demonstrate the Chinese government’s clear understanding of the benefits of a successful air transport sector. We have seen effective policy co-ordination in China – liberalisation, consolidation of the carriers, and impressive infrastructure investment. And now China has demonstrated its commitment to improve efficiency and reduce costs. Minister Yang Yuan Yuan and his team must be complimented for these achievements. I urge all governments, airports and air navigation service providers to take similar steps,” said Bisignani.
Vicky is the co-founder of TravelDailyNews Media Network where she is the Editor-in Chief. She is also responsible for the daily operation and the financial policy. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Tourism Business Administration from the Technical University of Athens and a Master in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Wales. She has many years of both academic and industrial experience within the travel industry. She has written/edited numerous articles in various tourism magazines.
