Fuel efficiency programme to save Rs 900 crore: CMD

National carrier Air India today said it aimed to save Rs 800-900 crore from its fuel efficiency programme, started in 2008.

The airline is currently implementing various initiates to enhance its fuel efficiency in association with the global airlines body, the International Air Transport Association.

“We have saved Rs 146 crore on account of the fuel savings programme so far. By the time we get the software (to facilitate better fuel management), we expect Rs 800-900-crore savings,” Air India Chairman and Managing Director, Arvind Jadhav, told reporters here.

The programme envisages vital changes in AI’s operational techniques, equipment settings, use of fuel management, flight planning, engine maintenance and cabin weight management.

Jadhav said the airline was currently implementing certain fuel efficiency initiatives, which did not require much technology. Once the required software was in place, it would lead to even better fuel efficiency management.

“There are several components of the fuel efficiency programme, those we can do immediately and those which can be achieved by procurement of software,” Jadhav said.

The national air carrier was also looking at savings from other segments such as hotel and transportation, he said.

As part of the cost-savings programme, Air India had also started merging its hotel accommodation and transportation, Jadhav said.

“We have also started merging hotel accommodation and transportation as well as foreign and domestic travel as part of the cost-savings programme,” he said.