Success Stories
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A Flying energy audit
Apr 30, 2010
Last year Volcanic Air Safaris undertook an energy audit as part of the Tourism Energy Efficiency Project, which is a joint initiative between the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority and the Tourism Industry Association. Taking part in the audit was time consuming but according to Fred Sprenger, the company’s chief pilot, the decision to take part in the programme is based on the company’s support for sustainable tourism and long term benefits.
“Fuel consumption is by far our single most significant expense and of course it contributes to environmental impacts like pollution and green house gasses. Therefore, we always have and always will be assessing methods to reduce fuel consumption. The offer to participate in this programme while time consuming, supported this approach. In addition, results from the energy audit will contribute to fuel savings generally among aviation companies so there are benefits beyond our company” says Fred.
One of the first actions initiated as part of the energy audit was the development of an accurate fuel monitoring system. Monitoring fuel consumptions allows the company to determine if actions to reduce fuel consumption are working. However, it is important to have a baseline from which to monitor consumption. “We’ve been monitoring our fuel consumption since June last year and are looking to get a full year of data before we introduce any changes. The first year of data will be our baseline from which hopefully fuel consumption will improve as efficiency actions are taken” says Fred.
According to Fred not all the energy report’s recommendations are relevant to Volcanic Air Safaris. For example, one recommendation is to use GPS in aircraft to ensure the aircraft does not veer from its course. However, this is more relevant for aviation operators shuttling passengers from point to point. In flight seeing operations flexibility in flight courses is essential as the main target is to enjoy the view not get from one place to another as efficiently as possible. “However, our helicopters often participate in shuttling operations where accurate route following is beneficial. We therefore plan to install fixed GPS systems into our helicopters and are considering a single portable system for the float planes”, says Fred.
Some recommendations given in the energy audit have been standard procedure since the company was established. For example, maintaining clean aircraft improves their fuel efficiency due to reduced drag. Volcanic Air Safaris has always maintained clean aircraft not only for operational reasons but because an aircraft’s appearance is an indicator of professionalism. “In this industry, appearances are so important. The first impression your plane makes on customers sticks with them” says company director Dorien Vroom. Both Dorien and Fred agree that while not all recommendations of the energy report are relevant to the company those recommendations that are will help make Volcanic Air Safaris a more economically, socially and environmentally sustainable company.
