Smarter Ground Operations for a Greener Future: Highlights from Aviation Festival Americas

I recently had the pleasure of attending the 2025 Aviation Festival Americas conference in Miami for a fireside chat with Grégoire James, Founder of the International Aviation Waste Management Association, where we explored practical strategies for achieving net-zero emissions in aviation.

In our session, I shared how i6 is helping the aviation industry reduce emissions through smarter ground operations, an often-overlooked part of the sustainability equation. Below are the key takeaways from our discussion. 

1. Ground Operations Matter‍

At i6, we focus on digitalizing the fueling processes—connecting airlines, fuel suppliers, storage terminals, and into-plane teams in real time. This leads to smarter decision-making, fewer delays, and measurable carbon reductions.

One of the clearest wins is fuel uplift optimization, which can cut overfueling by up to 65kg per flight and reduce CO₂ emissions by over 200kg per journey.

2. Operational Integrity = Sustainability‍

When ground systems are connected, it becomes easier to reduce fuel waste, and accurately tracking emissions becomes easier. We’ve seen into-plane teams cut fuel-related delays by 92% and go completely paperless. 

3. Collaboration Is Critical

‍Progress on sustainability requires real-time data sharing between pilots, refuelers, and fuel suppliers. With full visibility, we’ve seen a 50% improvement in fueling accuracy—driven purely by better digital communication and increased trust.

4. SAF Readiness Needs Better Tools‍

Scaling SAF use is essential, but most operations aren’t yet ready to track it properly. Our platform enables fuel tagging, uplift-to-invoice traceability, and automated SAF reporting, all critical steps toward credible ESG outcomes.

Fueling only takes minutes, but its impact lasts much longer. By digitizing this process, i6 is helping aviation move meaningfully toward net-zero. Contact us today to learn how we can help you!

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