Going green provides cost savings to passengers and is good for the future of our planet!

Southwest Airlines has embraced this idea by testing a green plane for the past 4 years.  You would never notice any difference from the outside, but many cost savings were realized on the interior.  New floor carpet installed in sections allows for only portions to be replaced when necessary.  The carpet is recyclable and returned at the end of its service life.  New lightweight, more durable seat covers and life vest pouches have been installed resulting in productivity improvements.  More efficient windscreens and rub strips have been added that last considerably longer than the products previously used.  The rub strips were changed from plastic to aluminum, are recyclable and, therefore, reduce waste. 

Southwest Airlines discovered that costs for the green plane have been outweighed by materials and labor savings resulting from more durable products and the fuel and emissions savings from a lighter aircraft. Many airlines are trying to reduce the amount of fuel they use by reducing the cargo weight. Passengers can see this trend influencing extra baggage fees.  

Save yourself the cost of extra baggage fees by checking out Tips for Packing Lightly.