easyJet. Photo: Photo: SNEHIT PHOTO / Shutterstock.com easyJet is partnering with aviation technology provider i6 Group to introduce digital refueling across its network, a move the airline says could help save up to 10,000 tons of CO₂ annually while improving operational efficiency.
Under the partnership, i6 Group’s eHandshake digital refueling platform will be integrated into easyJet’s existing ETechlog pilot platform. The technology will allow pilots to request and confirm fuel digitally, replacing paper-based processes with a connected system linking pilots, fuel suppliers and operational teams.
The airline expects the initiative to improve the accuracy of fuel information and reduce unnecessary fuel uplift. Carrying excess fuel increases aircraft weight and can result in additional fuel consumption, meaning more precise fuel planning could deliver both environmental and financial benefits.
The digital system is also expected to eliminate around 600,000 sheets of paper each year.
The eHandshake platform will create a digital record of each refueling event, including the amount of fuel planned, requested, delivered and accepted.
For pilots, the process will involve three main steps:
-Digital fuel requests: Pilots will submit fuel requirements electronically, allowing refueling providers to receive the information before arriving at the aircraft.
-Digital confirmation: Fuel deliveries will be recorded electronically and confirmed by pilots through the platform.
-Centralized records: The data will be stored centrally, creating a complete audit trail and allowing fuel information to be analyzed and verified.
easyJet says the system will also improve communication between pilots, fuel providers and operational teams while strengthening invoice verification and reducing inefficiencies associated with manual processes.
The technology will be introduced through a phased rollout, initially covering approximately half of easyJet’s network. The airline expects the system to expand to around 90% of its destinations over the next three years.
Adam Baker, Head of Fuel Performance at easyJet, said the partnership would provide a more connected fuel management process while improving data quality and visibility across fuel operations.
Alex Mattos, CEO and Co-founder of i6 Group, said integrating eHandshake into technology already used by easyJet pilots would allow fuel information to be digitally shared and verified between the different parties involved in refueling.
The initiative forms part of easyJet’s broader net-zero strategy. The airline remains committed to reducing the environmental impact of its operations and is targeting a 35% reduction in carbon emissions intensity by 2035.