Transavia equips Airbus fleet with technology for more efficient flying
Transavia is equipping its entire Airbus fleet with new satellite technology that helps fly more efficiently through European airspace. This IRIS technology enables more direct flight routes and can contribute to lower fuel consumption, reduced CO₂ emissions, and more efficient operations.
Since the end of 2025, new Transavia Airbus aircraft have been equipped with IRIS as standard, an innovative satellite technology that improves communication between the cockpit and air traffic control. Transavia currently has six Airbus A321 aircraft with IRIS technology. In the coming months, the thirteen previously delivered aircraft will also receive the software on board via a so-called retrofit. With this, Transavia's entire Airbus fleet will be using this technology.
The rollout builds on the experiences within ESMA, a European project for the modernization of airspace. Transavia already uses IRIS technology on commercial flights and provides operational data and real-world experience to the project. In doing so, the technology also supports the broader European ambition for a Single European Sky: a smarter, more efficient, and more sustainable European airspace with fewer delays and lower emissions.
“At Transavia, we are continuously looking for ways to make our operations smarter and more efficient. Technology such as IRIS helps us reduce fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions, while simultaneously contributing to more efficient use of European airspace. The positive experiences within ESMA and the operational insights gained support the further rollout of the technology at Transavia. The plan is for all Airbuses to use the new technology by the end of October,” says Marloes van Laake, Chief Operating Officer at Transavia.
Smarter airspace, more efficient flights
Where the VHF band was previously used for communication between pilots and air traffic controllers, IRIS uses satellite technology. As a result, flight data can be shared faster and routes can be better aligned with current airspace conditions. This allows aircraft to fly more direct routes more frequently, utilize optimal altitudes, and handle congestion en route more efficiently. Fewer detours and more efficient flight profiles result in lower fuel consumption, leading to reduced CO₂ emissions and more efficient operations.
About ESMA
ESMA is a European project that applies new communication technology during commercial flights to make air traffic more efficient. The project utilizes IRIS, a satellite-based system that improves communication between the cockpit and air traffic control. ESMA is part of SESAR (Single European Sky ATM Research), the European program for smarter, more efficient, and more sustainable use of airspace. Large-scale application can contribute to fewer delays, lower emissions, and more efficient air traffic in Europe.
This press release was translated using automated tools. Please refer to the original Dutch version for the most accurate information.