IAG Cargo, the cargo arm of International Airlines Group (IAG), has successfully transitioned its 160-strong ground vehicle fleet at London Heathrow from Diesel to hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO).
HVO, derived from plant waste and fully renewable materials, serves as a seamless replacement for White Diesel, significantly impacting net carbon emissions.
For IAG Cargo, the shift to HVO promises to slash net greenhouse gas emissions by up to 90%, while also markedly reducing nitrogen oxide (NOx) and particulate matter (PM). These reductions are poised to curtail IAG Cargo’s Scope 1 emissions by approximately 50%, aligning with the company’s sustainability objectives.
David Rose, Director of London Operations at IAG Cargo, affirmed, “Transitioning our fleet of ground vehicles from diesel to HVO showcases our commitment to sustainable operations. This move to HVO for our large fleet at London Heathrow is just one of the actions we are taking to reach our goal of net-zero by 2050 and will pave the way for a more sustainable future at IAG Cargo.”
Beyond embracing HVO, IAG Cargo is actively exploring additional avenues to diminish the carbon footprint of its global fleet. This includes integrating more electric vehicles (EVs) and streamlining the overall number of vehicles in operation. Notably, the fleet at its Dublin hub is already powered by electric or HVO vehicles.
Comprising a variety of vehicles ranging from small vans to large tugs capable of towing cargo-laden trailers, the transition to HVO was finalised in March 2024. Ongoing monitoring of the benefits will persist in the coming months.
IAG Cargo emerged as the single entity formed post-merger between British Airways World Cargo and Iberia Cargo in April 2011. With the integration of additional airlines, such as Aer Lingus, Vueling, and LEVEL, IAG Cargo now boasts a global network spanning six continents.
