IAG Cargo, the cargo division of International Airlines Group (IAG), has completed a transition from diesel to hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) for its 160-strong ground vehicle fleet at London Heathrow.

HVO is a drop-in replacement for White Diesel, made from plant waste and from fully renewable materials, meaning that it has a significant impact on net carbon emissions.

For IAG Cargo, the transition to HVO will reduce net greenhouse gas emissions by up to 90% and significantly reduces nitrogen oxide (NOx) and particulate matter (PM). These reductions will reduce IAG Cargo’s overall Scope 1 emissions by approximately 50%, contributing to the company’s sustainability targets.

David Rose, Director of London Operations at IAG Cargo said: “Transitioning our fleet of ground vehicles from diesel to HVO showcases our commitment to sustainable operations. This move to HVO for our large fleet at London Heathrow is just one of the actions we are taking to reach our goal of net-zero by 2050 and will pave the way for a more sustainable future at IAG Cargo.”

In addition to transitioning to HVO, IAG Cargo is looking for further ways to reduce the carbon impact of its global fleet. This includes measures such as additional electric vehicles (EVs), and a concerted effort to streamline the total vehicles in operation, with its fleet at its Dublin hub already powered by electric or HVO vehicles.

The fleet consists of a range of vehicles from small vans to large tugs which can tow trailers holding several tonnes of cargo. The transition to HVO was completed in March 2024. Since then, the benefits have been continuously measured, which will continue into the coming months.