Southwest Debuts "Green" Plane

Everyone knows of my new found crush on Southwest Airlines, and if you haven't you are more likely to hear me complain of how much I hate the airline industry than profess my love for it. In fact my favorite saying is "I would love my job more if I didn't have to deal with the airlines."

Now I'm even more excited to know that Southwest is focusing on efforts to create a more eco-friendly industry. WN222 was recently taken out of service and completely retrofitted to save the airline an estimated 5lbs per seat. Just a few of the enhancements include: InterfaceFlor carpet which is totally recyclable and the manufacturing process was carbon neutral, completely recyclable seat covers, life vest is lighter and smaller, foam fill by Garnier Purtec offers better comfort while being lighter in weight, wind screen bulkhead, and plastic aisle rub strips. All are lighter weight products which will make the plane more fuel efficient.

WN222 will fly in regular service and will be identified by a green nose cap and an announcement by the flight attendant once on board. It is truly a test aircraft and additional plane retrofits will be determined by this new fleet addition.

Additional eco-programs initiated by the airline include: noise reduction techniques, pursuing LEED certification in all new construction, a member of the Environmental Protection Agency's Green Power Leadership club, implemented a system-wide recycling and water conservation program.

Thank you Southwest!