We are delighted to announce we are once again recycling on board our flights, following a pause due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Originally launched in October 2019, this initiative has been instrumental in separating recyclable materials on all flights arriving at RAF Brize Norton and Mount Pleasant, Falkland Islands.

The importance of such initiatives cannot be overstated. Since the 1950s, the amount of plastic produced is equivalent to the weight of one billion elephants, with 79% ending up in landfills or the natural environment (The Telegraph). In 2017, the aviation industry alone generated over 5.7 million tonnes of waste, nearly the weight of 50,000 Voyager aircraft.

With global air travel on the rise, managing cabin waste is becoming increasingly significant. According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the industry produced 3.6 million tonnes of cabin waste in 2023, a figure expected to double by 2040 if current growth rates remain unchanged.

Championing Change

Our first recycling flight since the pause successfully departed on Wednesday, 31 July 2024, from RAF Brize Norton to Rzeszów. The on-board recycling initiative, which began with a flight from RAF Akrotiri, Cyprus to RAF Brize Norton in October 2019, has been a key factor in reducing landfill waste by efficiently segregating recyclable items on all inbound flights to RAF Brize Norton.

Dedicated Recycling Champions within our cabin crew have been appointed, and are at the forefront of this initiative. They fly on board to support the reintroduction of the programme and provide essential support, feedback, and recommendations for further improvements.

We are proud to implement this recycling process on both civilian and military aircraft, ensuring it is carried out on all inbound flights to RAF Brize Norton and on all flights into Mount Pleasant, Falkland Islands.

In collaboration with RAF Brize Norton, supporting the station’s Sustainability Committee, we are working closely alongside military personnel to promote a culture of environmental mindfulness and drive impactful change. In addition, we are also working closely with Sodexo, a global leader in food services and facilities management. Their expertise and support are invaluable in ensuring the success of our recycling efforts.

On-Board Recycling Process

During flight, all recyclable items are placed in onboard trash compactor boxes, which can be compacted further to save space. After landing, all recycling waste is labelled for clear identification and removal by Sodexo to be recycled.

Voices of Change                                                                                

Insights into the on-board recycling initiative can be gleaned from Laura, a member of our Cabin Crew and Recycling Champion, who shared with BFBS how passengers can play a huge role in sustainability efforts whilst travelling.

Kylie, Cabin Services Delivery Lead, reflects on the successful reintroduction of the programme:

“The initial rollout of the On-board Recycling Initiative across AirTanker’s fleets in 2019 was a significant achievement, made possible through a collaborative effort with RAF colleagues and external service providers. Despite the interruption caused by the pandemic, it has been rewarding to see the scheme’s resurgence over the past few months. AirTanker is enthusiastic about continuing its journey towards improved recycling and sustainability.”