Austrian Airlines has successfully renewed its registration under the European Eco-Management and Audit Scheme (EMAS), marking the completion of its first three-year validation cycle. This renewal confirms the effectiveness of the airline's environmental management system and its dedication to continuous improvement since its initial validation in 2023.
The airline's 2025 Environmental Report highlights several initiatives that have led to measurable environmental progress. A notable achievement is the implementation of AeroSHARK technology on its four Boeing 777-200ER aeroplanes. Developed by Lufthansa Technik and BASF, this innovative surface film, inspired by shark skin, reduces aerodynamic drag. In its first year, the technology achieved a drag reduction of approximately 0.7%, resulting in fuel savings of around 930 tonnes of kerosene and nearly 3,000 tonnes of avoided CO₂ emissions. Austrian Airlines is the first airline globally to equip the Boeing 777-200ER with this technology.
Further advancements were made in reducing onboard waste, with the share of recyclable plastic and aluminium among service items increasing from 76% in 2024 to about 80% by the end of 2025. The airline aims to reach 100% recyclability by 2027, focusing on food packaging and passenger-facing products.
Austrian Airlines' CEO, Annette Mann, stated, "The successful renewal of our EMAS validation confirms that our environmental management system is effective and delivers measurable results. It reflects the commitment of our employees and encourages us to continue to further improve our environmental performance year after year."
As part of the Lufthansa Group and a member of the Star Alliance, Austrian Airlines is committed to achieving a neutral CO₂ balance by 2050 through reduction and compensation measures. The airline plans to halve its net CO₂ emissions by 2030 compared to 2019 levels.
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