Air India Group deploys SITA’s data-driven tech to boost flight efficiency, cut emissions

September 12, 2025 in Business, Companies, Science and Technology, Travel & Tourism by Editor

Air India Group has adopted advanced flight optimisation tools from SITA as part of its modernisation strategy, aiming to reduce costs and shrink its carbon footprint.

The deployment covers the airline’s Airbus A320 fleet and Air India Express Boeing 737 aircraft, with plans underway to extend the technology to its widebody fleet. According to the carrier, the rollout of SITA OptiFlight® and eWAS is expected to cut fuel consumption significantly, helping to avoid an estimated 35,000 tons of carbon emissions each year.

“As the aviation industry navigates growing regulatory and environmental pressure, the need for intelligent, predictive solutions has never been more critical,” said Sumesh Patel, President for Asia Pacific at SITA. “Air India’s deployment of SITA OptiFlight® and eWAS is a strong example of how smart digital technologies can cut emissions, save fuel, and unlock real operational value across every flight.”

Air India’s Chief Operations Officer, Basil Kwauk, said the investment reflects the airline’s commitment to sustainability and efficiency as it transforms into a world-class carrier. “With SITA OptiFlight® and SITA eWAS, we’re taking meaningful steps to modernise our operations and reduce our carbon footprint,” he noted.

SITA OptiFlight® uses historical flight data, aircraft-specific performance models, and 4D weather forecasts to fine-tune key phases of flight. Its OptiClimb module personalises climb-out schedules for each aircraft, enabling pilots to reduce fuel burn during one of the most energy-intensive stages of flying.

SITA eWAS complements this by equipping pilots with real-time weather updates and predictive forecasts. The tool helps crews avoid turbulence, re-route efficiently, and make safer in-flight decisions while minimising unnecessary fuel use.

The initiative comes as airlines across the globe face mounting operational pressures from high fuel prices and stricter sustainability requirements. SITA says its tools will play a growing role in helping airlines in India achieve operational resilience and meet long-term sustainability targets.