Download This Article (PDF - 184 KB)Using these same assumptions on fuel price, the potential fuel savings for an operator of a small fleet of 747-400s whose airplanes average a total of three cycles per day would be approximately 420 U.S. pounds (191 kilograms) of fuel per day, or approximately US$230. During a year, the operator could save approximately US$84,000. These savings are not as dramatic as the short-range transport airplane, but clearly they increase as the fleet size or number of cycles grows.
Operators need to determine whether their fleet size and cycles are such that the savings would make it worthwhile to change procedures and pilot training. Other important factors that determine whether or not it is advisable to change standard takeoff settings include obstacles clearance, runway length, airport noise, and departure procedures.
Another area in the takeoff and climb phase where airlines can reduce fuel burn is in the climb‑out and cleanup operation. If the flight crew performs acceleration and flap retraction at a lower altitude than the typical 3,000 feet (914 meters), the fuel burn is reduced because the drag is being reduced earlier in the climb-out phase.
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