Sustainability In The Skies - SkyAlps Flight Route Leads The Way To Sustainable Aviation

The new SkyAlps route from London to Bolzano is not only making the Dolomites closer than ever but is setting the standard for sustainable aviation.   

SkyAlps operated their first flight in September with sustainable aviation fuel, offering the best opportunity to sharply reduce aviation emissions. Made largely from forestry and agricultural waste, SAF can be safely dropped into existing jet engines and fuelling infrastructure, to potentially reduce carbon emissions by up to 80% compared with conventional jet fuel - it is SkyAlps’ goal to increase the use of SAF to achieve emission targets and develop sustainable air travel.   

The aviation operator is a subsidiary company of the FRI-EL Green Power group, a leading company in the field of production of electricity from renewable sources that saves around 860,000 tonnes of CO2 per year. For the last 20 years the group has delivered energy from renewable sources to customers all over northern Italy. 

SkyAlps flies using the modern and quiet De Havilland and Havilland Canada Dash 8-Q400 aeroplanes. Seating 76 passengers and offering one of the greenest passenger eco-footprints, the aircraft consumes around 50% less fuel than the average jet and is extremely efficient. The fast, turboprop-powered plane can complete short journeys almost as quickly as a regional jet, but with lower CO2 emissions. It produces up to 50% less emissions and 50% less noise during take-off and landing than other regional jets. SkyAlps succeeds in keeping CO2 emissions per passenger kilometre on their flights as low as possible with the Dash 8 Q400 aircraft type. The Q in the aircraft’s name stands for “quiet” and is equipped with a sophisticated system to reduce noise and vibration in the passenger compartment.  

From 13 December, the new London Stansted – Bolzano route will operate twice a week, on Wednesdays and Sundays, and flights have been released for the whole winter season, until 14 April. For the first time, the service will whisk passengers directly in to one of Europe’s most challenging, varied and dramatic ski regions. Until now, those visiting South Tyrol have had to take lengthy, two hour-transfers from major airports such as Verona, Milan, Venice or Innsbruck. The new route provides a quick and convenient solution for reaching the Dolomites, allowing travellers to maximise their time on the slopes. 

Travellers can relax and enjoy a premium experience aboard the 2 hour and 35-minute flight, tasting the extensive in-flight menu comprised of regional delicacies and wine from 48 selected producers, including four awarded quality wines every month. With seat prices starting from €184, SkyAlps route is affordable and environmentally friendly but still a premium option for those travelling to the Dolomites. Whether you're an avid skier, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking to experience a slice of Alpine paradise, this new route promises to be the sustainable gateway to unforgettable experiences.