#Turkey #Boeing 737 #SunExpress #VCT Finlets #Antalya

SunExpress's Commitment to Sustainability

SunExpress, a leading airline formed through a collaboration between Lufthansa and Turkish Airlines, has taken a significant step towards enhancing its environmental sustainability. The airline recently announced plans to retrofit its entire fleet of Boeing 737-800 aircraft with VCT Finlets, pioneering a technology designed to reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions.

This initiative follows a successful year-long assessment that demonstrated the effectiveness of VCT Finlets in actual flight conditions. These patented aerodynamic fins are affixed to the aft fuselage of the aircraft and work by modifying airflow to decrease drag. The result is improved fuel efficiency, enhanced range, better climb performance, and an overall increase in endurance for the aircraft.

The Phased Rollout of VCT Finlets

The project is being rolled out in phases, with the initial phase seeing five aircraft equipped with the Finlets during May 2024. Following encouraging results, SunExpress is now moving forward with its second phase, which involves installing the technology on more than 40 additional aircraft over the upcoming years. This plan aligns with the airline's objectives to minimize its carbon footprint and optimize operational efficiency.

Cemil Sayar, Chief Operations Officer of SunExpress, emphasized the company's dedication to environmental responsibility, stating, “At SunExpress, we continuously seek innovative ways to enhance our fuel efficiency and reduce our environmental impact.” By adopting VCT Finlets across its fleet, SunExpress hopes to set a benchmark within the aviation industry for responsible and efficient operations.

Collaboration with Vortex Control Technologies

VCT Finlets are the brainchild of Vortex Control Technologies (VCT), a company known for designing performance-enhancing modifications for aircraft. According to Gil Morgan, CEO of VCT, “The certification of Finlets on the 737-700, 800, and 900ER is the result of more than a decade of research and testing.” Morgan praised the partnership with SunExpress, highlighting the importance of innovation in accelerating the shift towards sustainability within the aviation sector.

The Bigger Picture: Industry Trends Towards Sustainability

The aviation industry as a whole is witnessing an increased pressure to adopt eco-friendly practices. Airlines globally are being challenged to find ways to reduce emissions, especially in the light of growing environmental concerns. Technologies like VCT Finlets represent a vital step in this process, providing a tangible solution to an industry long criticized for its environmental impact.

In recent years, numerous airlines have pledged commitments to environmental goals, and SunExpress’s innovative approach with VCT Finlets showcases its role as a leader in this transition. Furthermore, the convergence of flight safety, efficiency, and sustainability positions SunExpress among the forward-thinking airlines dedicated to fostering a greener future.

About SunExpress

Founded in Antalya, Turkey, SunExpress is a joint venture between Turkish Airlines and Lufthansa, with 35 years of experience operating as a leisure airline. The airline connects 237 routes in 35 countries and serves nearly 15 million passengers each year, backed by a dedicated workforce of over 4,500 employees. Recently, SunExpress was recognized as the 'Best Leisure Airline in Europe' in a Skytrax survey, further solidifying its reputation in the travel industry.

For additional details, the public can visit www.sunexpress.com.

Conclusion

Through the integration of VCT Finlets into its Boeing 737-800 fleet, SunExpress is making significant strides toward minimizing its carbon footprint and ensuring a more sustainable future for travel. As technology continues to evolve, such innovations are paramount in the fight against climate change, establishing a path for other airlines to follow.