Emirates Joins Aviation Circularity Consortium

Emirates Signs On to Circular Aviation Initiative

Emirates has partnered with SL Metals to join the Aviation Circularity Consortium (ACC) to advance the circular economy in aviation. This collaboration signifies the ACC's ongoing expansion and Emirates' dedication to speeding up supply chain decarbonisation through valuable circularity. This follows the Consortium’s significant launch of its 2050 Industry Roadmap in November 2024.

Emirates has integrated recycling and circular solutions into its operations as a key part of its sustainability strategy. This includes upcycling cabin interiors, using more sustainable materials in its products, and implementing inflight initiatives and waste reduction programs. The airline is constantly seeking innovative methods to lessen its environmental impact. By joining the ACC, Emirates aims to enhance advancements in circular aviation innovations, reinforcing the Consortium’s collaborative efforts.

SL Metals, an aluminium alloy distributor located in Singapore, caters to the Asia Pacific and Middle East markets, offering extensive expertise in aluminium solutions. The company provides a wide variety of aluminium alloy products across diverse sectors, such as aerospace, precision engineering, and semiconductors. By joining the ACC, SL Metals aims to contribute to initiatives that promote sustainable supply chain practices and enhance material circularity in the aviation industry.

Ahmed Safa, Head of Engineering & MRO, Emirates Group, said, “Aviation must rethink how materials are used across an aircraft’s lifecycle, from production to retirement. With the number of retired aircraft continuing to grow, the need for sustainable end-of-life solutions is more urgent than ever. At Emirates, we are identifying new pathways to extend our fleet’s lifespan, and joining the ACC enables us to collaborate on sustainable initiatives that reduce waste, enhance efficiency, and accelerate aviation’s transition to a circular economy.”

Sam Tan Yee Leong, Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director, SL Metals, said, “Aluminium plays a critical role in aviation, as in many other industries, making responsible sourcing and efficient material use essential. Aluminium production also accounts for 3% of global industrial CO2 emissions, making sustainable practices across the supply chain increasingly important. SL Metals remains committed to improving sustainability within our own operations while supporting broader industry-wide efforts. Through the ACC, we look forward to advancing best practices in aluminium use and supporting initiatives that shape a more resilient and sustainable aviation supply chain.”

The ACC understands that collaboration across the industry is essential to advancing aviation circularity. To this end, it actively unites key stakeholders within the aviation ecosystem to drive significant progress. Emirates has recently become the second airline to join the ACC, demonstrating the industry’s growing recognition of the need for circularity in achieving decarbonization. The airline’s expertise in sustainable fleet management will be crucial in addressing the challenge of safely and responsibly handling end-of-life aircraft. Additionally, SL Metals' involvement enhances the Consortium’s ability to develop effective circular solutions, particularly as the need for vital materials in aviation continues to rise.