Indian airlines are turning to artificial intelligence to cut fuel costs after exhausting conventional methods. IndiGo, the country's largest carrier, begins trial of an AI-powered flight optimisation solution called OptiClimb from Thursday on its Airbus fleet. The solution targets the climb phase of flight, which accounts for the highest rate of fuel consumption, according to a mail sent by Captain Ashim Mittra, IndiGo’s senior VP (flight operations), to its about 6,000 pilots.
AI tackles fuel burn in climb phase
Instead of taking off at constant speed, pilots will use varying speeds wherever possible, guided by the OptiClimb solution. According to Captain Mittra's email, IndiGo has been working closely with SITA, described as the world's leading flight operation solution provider, on the implementation of OptiClimb over the past several months. The solution is an AI-powered flight optimisation solution that helps pilots reduce fuel burn and carbon emissions during the energy-intensive climb phase.
"Recent advancements in aircraft performance analytics have enabled more refined climb optimisation techniques," the mail stated. "By considering actual aircraft performance, planned take-off weight, cruise altitude, and prevailing atmospheric conditions, OptiClimb enables more efficient climb profiles, delivering measurable reductions in fuel consumption and associated carbon emissions while maintaining the highest standards of operational safety and regulatory compliance."
Trial details and expected savings
IndiGo aims to save 60-65 kg of fuel per takeoff using the AI solution. With about 2,000 flights daily, the carrier estimates impressive savings even if only half of those flights adopt the technique. Lower fuel burn also translates to lower emissions. Depending on the outcome of the trial, the airline may make it a regular feature on its Airbus fleet. The trial begins Thursday, according to the article.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Fuel saving per takeoff (target) | 60–65 kg |
| Daily flights (IndiGo) | ~2,000 |
| Potential daily saving (if half use) | ~30,000–32,500 kg (30–32.5 tonnes) |
| Aircraft fleet | Airbus (likely A320 family) |
| Solution provider | SITA |
Industry context: a decade of incremental gains
Fuel saving has been a necessity since the 2008 subprime crisis when global economy slowed and energy prices surged. Airlines made aircraft lighter by stripping non-essential items like curtains and partitions, and by carrying less water. More fuel-efficient engines were developed over time. The next generation of fuel-efficient aircraft using completely different engine architecture is in development but is at least a decade away. Until they become reality, AI could help airlines save some fuel, the article notes.
How OptiClimb works
According to Captain Mittra's email, the climb phase typically accounts for the highest rate of fuel consumption during any flight. OptiClimb uses AI to adjust climb profiles based on actual aircraft weight, cruise altitude, and current weather. The solution integrates with existing Flight Management Systems (FMS) to deliver incremental efficiencies beyond conventional optimisation alone. "The primary objective of this initiative is to enhance fuel efficiency, reduce our carbon footprint, and strengthen operational sustainability, while ensuring full adherence to Air Traffic Control (ATC) requirements and safe operating practices," the email added.
For enterprise technology buyers, the case illustrates how AI can drive measurable savings in fuel-intensive operations, with potential applications in logistics and supply chain fleet management. The trial underscores the value of data-driven optimisation in achieving cost and sustainability goals without waiting for next-generation hardware.
Sources:
