Southwest Launches Eco-Friendlier Plane

Contributing Editor Carl Unger believes that every trip is worth taking. He loves an extended trip to Europe as much as he enjoys exploring the towns and landscape near home. Basically, you'll find him wherever there is good food, fresh air, and plenty of stories to bring home.

Carl has been writing for SmarterTravel since 2005. His travel writing has also appeared on USA Today and the About.com Boston travel guide.

The Handy Item I Always Pack: "It's not revolutionary, but a small Moleskine notebook is my one travel must-have. It's great for noting things you want to remember and it takes up hardly any space in your bag."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience: "Japan. I'd love to take a month off and visit the cities, temples, and countryside. I'm fascinated by the country's juxtaposition of ancient traditions and modern ambitions."

Travel Motto: “Why do you go away? So that you can come back. So that you can see the place you came from with new eyes and extra colors. And the people there see you differently, too. Coming back to where you started is not the same as never leaving.” –Terry Pratchett

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat: "Window."

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Southwest goes green? You read that right—the low-cost carrier debuted a new plane designed to test eco-friendly products. The aircraft, which flies mostly between Boston and Chicago, has been outfitted with 100% recyclable carpet, manmade leather substitutes for the seats, and small changes designed to reduce the overall weight of the plane (meaning it uses less fuel). All in all, Southwest’s changes have reduced the aircraft’s weight by five pounds per seat.

The airline plans to continue testing new green initiative with this plane. Interested travelers can identify the green aircraft by a green recycling logo on the bow.

Of course, there’s a money-saving angle here as well (it’s Southwest, after all). The carpeting, for example, comes in tiles instead of rolls, meaning Southwest can replace worn areas independently instead of putting down entirely new carpet. This saves money on materials and labor, and is a quicker fix (time equals money, you know). The seat covers are more durable, and therefore should last longer.

Ideally, Southwest will prove that environmental awareness can intersect with good business practices, and more airlines will consider the products and methods Southwest is testing.

Do you have other ideas for simple ways airlines can make flights more eco-friendly?

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