LOT Polish Airlines First to Track Green Fuel Savings

For the first time ever, airline passengers can see how sustainable fuel makes their specific flight greener, thanks to a breakthrough by LOT Polish Airlines.

The Polish carrier just became the first airline to integrate Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) emissions reductions into the IATA CO2 Connect calculator. This means when you book a flight, you can now see actual carbon savings from cleaner fuel, not just vague sustainability promises.

"SAF is the most effective way today to reduce aviation emissions," said Anna Kowalska, the data expert leading the effort at LOT. "As we ramp up the use of these fuels, we want passengers to understand the impact of the emissions reduction."

The system uses standardized accounting rules to calculate per-passenger CO2 reductions. Instead of companies making their own claims about being "green," everyone now follows the same measurement playbook.

LOT was among the first airlines to submit data to IATA CO2 Connect when it launched. The platform has now grown to more than 100 participating airlines, all working toward consistent emissions reporting.

The Ripple Effect

This transparency breakthrough arrives at a perfect moment. Airlines pledged to reach net-zero emissions by 2050, but travelers and cargo companies increasingly demand proof, not promises.

For cargo operators and freight forwarders especially, this matters. They face growing pressure to report their Scope 3 emissions, which includes the carbon footprint of shipping goods by air.

The standardized system means businesses can finally compare airlines' environmental impact accurately. No more guessing which carrier truly offers greener flights.

More importantly, the transparency creates accountability. When passengers see real numbers, airlines have stronger incentives to invest in sustainable fuel and report honest data.

SAF currently represents a tiny fraction of jet fuel used worldwide, but demand is growing. These fuels can reduce emissions by up to 80% compared to conventional jet fuel over their lifecycle.

By making the impact visible to every passenger, LOT's move could accelerate the shift toward cleaner aviation across the industry.

Real progress happens when good intentions meet measurable action, and that's exactly what's taking off here.