Transforming Aircraft Cleaning: The Visionary Partnership Between EGH and Air India SATS
Aircraft cleaning plays a vital role in the overall maintenance and upkeep of an aircraft, contributing significantly to both operational efficiency and brand image. A clean aircraft not only enhances the aesthetic appeal, reflecting positively on the airline’s brand, but it also has a direct impact on sustainability in aviation. Regular cleaning reduces skin friction drag, which leads to lower fuel consumption during flights. This reduction in fuel burn not only decreases operating costs but also minimizes carbon emissions, aligning with the industry's broader environmental goals.
Furthermore, maintaining clean aircraft surfaces facilitates more efficient and accurate engineering inspections. A spotless exterior allows maintenance crews to detect potential issues, such as corrosion or structural damage, more easily, thereby enhancing the overall safety and reliability of the aircraft.
Industry studies have consistently shown that regular cleaning of aircraft can result in significant fuel savings. By reducing drag, airlines can optimize fuel efficiency, which can lead to measurable cost reductions and contribute to greener, more sustainable aviation operations.
Traditionally, aircraft are cleaned using large volumes of water mixed with detergents, but with increasing environmental concerns, it has become essential to treat the runoff water before it is discharged into groundwater systems. Washing a single wide-body aircraft with conventional methods can consume approximately 2,500 to 3,000 liters of water. When multiplied by the number of cleanings required for an airline’s fleet throughout the year, this results in substantial water consumption and wastage, raising concerns about the sustainability of the practice.
Given the growing pressure to conserve water and protect natural resources, the aviation industry is shifting toward more eco-friendly solutions, such as dry washing. Dry washing methods not only eliminate the need for excessive water use but also reduce the environmental impact associated with waste-water runoff, making it a more sustainable choice for the future of aircraft cleaning. This shift helps airlines align with environmental regulations and improve their sustainability credentials while maintaining the cleanliness and efficiency of their fleets.
We are pleased to announce that Aerowash, a revolutionary piece of equipment developed in Sweden, is the world’s first and only mechanized exterior dry wash system for aircraft. This state-of-the-art machine is designed to clean both narrow-body and wide-body aircraft, providing a highly efficient and environmentally sustainable alternative to traditional washing methods.
Air India SATS, a joint venture between TATA’s Air India and Singapore’s SATS Group, has pioneered the use of this groundbreaking technology. As the first company globally to implement mechanized exterior dry washes on a large scale, Air India SATS has successfully completed over 2,000 aircraft washes in India, setting a new standard in aviation maintenance.
Building on this success, Air India SATS is further investing in this unique equipment and process with the goal of expanding its reach beyond India. In collaboration with Economic Group Holding (EGH), a prominent Dubai-based company, a joint venture (JV) has been established to introduce this innovative cleaning technology to the GCC region.
In partnership with Aerotech Sustainable Solutions, the exclusive rights holder and marketing partner for Aerowash in the GCC, the three companies are working together to bring the benefits of mechanized exterior dry washing to airlines operating throughout the region. This strategic collaboration marks a significant step in promoting sustainable aviation practices, enhancing operational efficiency, and reducing environmental impact for airlines in the GCC.
The scarcity of clean water and the extreme climate conditions in the GCC region, combined with growing concerns over carbon emissions, make this project a critical component of modern airline maintenance. In a region where water conservation and environmental sustainability are paramount, the introduction of mechanized exterior dry washing aligns perfectly with the needs of airlines seeking to reduce their ecological footprint. By minimizing water usage and cutting down on carbon emissions through more efficient cleaning processes, this project offers a sustainable solution that is both environmentally responsible and operationally effective.
The joint venture (JV) between Air India SATS, Economic Group Holding (EGH), and Aerotech Sustainable Solutions not only focuses on revolutionizing aircraft cleaning but also serves as a platform for future sustainable initiatives. Leveraging the combined expertise and resources of the JV partners, the collaboration aims to explore and implement additional green technologies and practices that contribute to a more sustainable aviation industry. This forward-thinking approach positions the JV as a leader in driving positive environmental change within the airline sector, while enhancing the overall efficiency and sustainability of maintenance processes across the GCC region.
About EGH
Economic Group Holding (EGH) is a Dubai-based company with strong roots in the region. It has been backed by the Al Quasimi family, a notable and influential family in the UAE. Under the visionary leadership of Mr. Rawoof, EGH has forged partnerships and ventured into industries that drive innovation and growth. EGH’s involvement in this JV is a testament to its commitment to sustainable development in key industries, including aviation. With a strategic focus on the GCC region, EGH continues to align its business with global environmental goals, seeking innovative solutions that support the region’s commitment to greener and more efficient operations.
About Air India SATS
Air India SATS is a joint venture between Air India, India’s flagship national carrier, and SATS Group of Singapore, a leading provider of gateway services and food solutions. Together, the two entities form a powerhouse in the aviation services sector, offering a range of ground-handling, cargo, and technical services across multiple airports. Their shared vision focuses on driving excellence in service delivery while embracing innovative and environmentally friendly technologies.
A Vision for Sustainable Aviation Solutions
This joint venture between EGH and Air India SATS represents a forward-thinking vision for the future of aviation. With a shared commitment to promoting sustainable solutions, the two companies aim to lead the transformation of aircraft maintenance in the Middle East and beyond. Their initial focus is on the mechanized exterior dry wash technology, which aligns perfectly with global efforts to reduce water wastage and carbon emissions. The dry wash technology, manufactured by Aerowash in Sweden, enables the cleaning of aircraft without the use of excessive water, making it a critical solution for regions like the GCC, where water conservation is a pressing concern.
By leveraging each partner’s strengths, the JV aspires to extend these sustainable solutions across the GCC and eventually beyond. Together with Aerotech Sustainable Solutions, the exclusivity right holder and marketing partner in the GCC, the JV aims to benefit airlines operating in the region by reducing operational costs, improving environmental impact, and enhancing the overall efficiency of aircraft cleaning processes.
The Future of the JV
While the immediate focus is on the implementation of the dry wash technology, the JV has broader ambitions. The partners intend to explore additional sustainable projects that harness the unique capabilities and resources of each partner. By doing so, they hope to make meaningful contributions to the aviation sector, not only by reducing environmental impact but also by setting new standards for efficiency and sustainability in airline operations.