How Satellite-Enabled Air Traffic Management Can Support Reducing Aviation’s Environmental Footprint

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Aviation has long been a key enabler of global connectivity. It links people, businesses and cultures across continents. But as the industry continues to grow, so too does its environmental impact. In recent years, decarbonising aviation has become a top priority, with governments, airlines and innovators all searching for smarter ways to cut emissions without compromising efficiency or safety.

At Skykraft, we believe that part of the answer lies in cleaner fuel or lighter aircraft, and improved aircraft communication. By leveraging satellite-based air traffic management (ATM), we’re not only making aviation safer and more efficient, but also playing a role in helping reduce the industry’s carbon footprint.

The environmental toll of inefficient flight paths

Commercial aviation contributes approximately 2-3% of global CO₂ emissions each year. While engine efficiency and sustainable fuels are part of the long-term solution, one often overlooked contributor to emissions is the flight path itself. Aircraft rarely fly in straight lines from point A to point B. Instead, they follow indirect, segmented routes dictated by Airways, lack of ground-based coverage, or congested airspace. These detours can result in longer flight times, greater fuel consumption and increased greenhouse gas emissions.

The satellite advantage: Direct routes and real-time decisions

Skykraft’s satellite-based ATM network offers an innovative solution. Our low Earth orbit satellites work in tandem with existing ground-based infrastructure to provide truly global coverage, including over oceanic, polar and remote regions where traditional radar and VHF simply can’t reach.

With real-time tracking and continuous communication, airlines can plan and fly more efficient flight paths - cutting down both fuel use and emissions.

This improved situational awareness also enables air traffic controllers to better manage aircraft separation, reduce delays, and accommodate optimal cruising altitudes - all of which contribute to lower fuel burn.

Small changes, big impact

The environmental benefits of optimised routing may sound subtle, but when multiplied across thousands of flights each day, the impact is profound. According to estimates from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), even a 1% improvement in flight efficiency could save hundreds of millions of litres of jet fuel annually and prevent millions of tonnes of CO₂ emissions.

Satellite-enabled ATM provides a route to a more than a 1% improvement - particularly on long-haul and transoceanic routes, by allowing optimal flight path routing.

Empowering a more sustainable industry

As the aviation sector sets ambitious environmental targets, including the goal of net-zero emissions by 2050, innovation in ATM will play a crucial supporting role. Technologies like sustainable aviation fuel and electric propulsion will take time to scale, but efficient airspace management can deliver immediate, measurable environmental gains.

By reducing aircraft time in the air and enabling better fuel planning, satellite-based ATM not only lowers emissions, but also cuts costs for airlines and improves the overall travel experience for passengers. Fewer delays, smoother flights and more predictable arrivals are just some of the downstream benefits.

A greener future, one flight at a time

Skykraft’s commitment to transforming global air traffic management is about building a better future. Our satellite constellation is designed to enhance global ATM infrastructure, providing the tools needed to make aviation smarter, safer and gentler on the environment.

As the skies grow more crowded and environmental pressures intensify, there’s never been a more important time to rethink how we manage aircraft in flight. By providing air traffic controllers and airlines with real-time global data, Skykraft is helping the aviation industry take critical steps toward sustainability.