Norse Atlantic Airways has joined forces with Avinxt, unveiling plans to integrate the world’s largest robot into their operations.
This colossal machine, powered by green technology and artificial intelligence, promises to revolutionize aircraft de-icing, washing, engine maintenance, and technical inspections.
In collaboration with industry giants Canrig and Siemens, Avinxt is set to redefine aviation practices, marking a significant step towards reducing costs and carbon emissions.
Green Innovation Takes Flight
Norse Atlantic Airways, renowned for its fleet of modern and eco-efficient Boeing 787 Dreamliners, has consistently aimed at minimizing its environmental impact.
The airline’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its high-utilization approach and thoughtfully designed cabin configurations, resulting in industry-leading per-passenger emissions.
Now, with the strategic partnership with Avinxt, Norse Atlantic Airways is poised to achieve an impressive 4 percent reduction in its carbon footprint.
“The solution from Avinxt is one of several initiatives that can help us reduce our carbon footprint while at the same time reducing our costs. That is a win-win,” states Chief Operating Officer Thom-Arne Norheim at Norse Atlantic Airways.
The collaboration reflects Norse’s dedication to exploring innovative partnerships that enhance operational efficiency, punctuality, and cost-effectiveness, especially during challenging winter operations.
Faster, Greener, Cost-Effective
Avinxt’s CEO and Chairman, Ove Trøen, expresses enthusiasm about partnering with Norse Atlantic Airways, emphasizing the transformative potential of their collaboration.
The initial deployment of Avinxt’s robots is set to take place at Oslo Airport, with plans to extend the innovative technology to Norse’s hub at London Gatwick.
Trøen advocates for a shift away from manual, time-consuming, and costly aviation processes.
“There is no reason why airports, airlines, the air force, and ground handlers should continue with manual, time-consuming and expensive processes when we can do it faster, better, more environmentally friendly, and more cost-effective by using new technology,” he asserts.
Benefits of Robotic Aviation Maintenance
Regular exterior washing of aircraft has been proven to reduce air resistance, subsequently decreasing fuel burn by up to two percent.
Avinxt’s robots, equipped with cameras and artificial intelligence, scan aircraft for fuselage damage with unprecedented precision, a process that takes mere hours compared to traditional methods taking several weeks.
This not only ensures safer flights but also contributes to lower maintenance costs.
Avinxt is set to address environmental hazards associated with toxic glycol from airport operations. By offering on-site collection and recycling of chemicals, Avinxt’s facility can recycle over 80 percent of all water and chemicals used in aviation processes.
This innovative approach not only reduces costs for airlines but also significantly benefits the environment by preventing soil and groundwater contamination.
Trøen emphasizes the environmental impact of on-site recycling, stating, “Our calculations show that collecting and recycling all liquids used, you can save as much as 1,800 kilos of CO2 per de-icing of a Boeing 787 Dreamliner.”
Avinxt’s Giant Robot Ready for Launch
After rigorous testing and development, Avinxt is set to commence the construction of the world’s largest robot in 2024.
This robotic marvel will handle everything from larger passenger planes to smaller private planes and military aircraft.
Avinxt has already secured agreements with airlines like Widerøe and Norwegian, with Widerøe Ground Handling set to operate the robot at Oslo Airport.
