The International Air Transport Association has obtained China’s approval to implement a new route for international traffic which reduces flight times between China and Europe by an average of 30 minutes.Officially known as Y-1, it is often referred to
as IATA-1, reflecting IATA’s role in achieving this in cooperation with
the Chinese Government. Initially 110 flights a week could potentially
benefit from IATA-1. 

An inauguration ceremony was held in Beijing today with the route
expected to open for commercial traffic from 13 April 2006, following
discussions dating back to 2000. Y-1, combined with Y-2 provides
airlines with more route options when flying between Asia and Europe,
allowing airlines to better optimise routings.

“IATA-1 will result in US$30 million in savings on the airlines fuel
bill.  We appreciate the cooperation of the Chinese Government in making
airspace more efficient at a time where the airline industry is bleeding
red ink from the record high price of oil,” said Giovanni Bisignani,
IATA’s Director General and CEO.

IATA-1 will have a significant impact on the environment. The more
direct routing will eliminate 2,860 hours of flight time, 27,000 tonnes
of fuel consumption, 84,800 tonnes of carbon dioxide emission, and
340,000 kilogrammes of nitrogen oxides emission annually.

“Airlines take their commitment to the environment seriously. While
supporting 8% of global economic activity, air transport is responsible
for 3.5% of global greenhouse emissions. This is a good record, but we
are determined to do more. Fuel efficiency, direct routings and new
technology are all part of efforts that have realised a 70% reduction in
aircraft emissions over the last 30 years. IATA-1 is a great example of
how cooperation of industry and government is a winning solution for
all,” said Bisignani

“The new routes further demonstrate the Chinese government’s clear
understanding of the benefits of a successful air transport sector.  We
have seen effective policy co-ordination in China - liberalisation,
consolidation of the carriers, and impressive infrastructure investment.
And now China has demonstrated its commitment to improve efficiency and
reduce costs.  Minister Yang Yuan Yuan and his team must be complimented
for these achievements. I urge all governments, airports and air
navigation service providers to take similar steps,” said Bisignani.
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