Atlas Air Worldwide Releases 2023 Sustainability Report

Today, we released our fifth sustainability report highlighting Atlas’ achievements and the innovative solutions advancing sustainability within the aviation industry. Under the theme “Caring for the World We Carry,” the report reflects our dedication to fostering a sustainable future in aviation that is driven in partnership with our employees, customers, partners and other stakeholders. 

Atlas Air Worldwide Chief Executive Officer, Michael Steen, and Chief Commercial Officer and Head of Sustainability, Richard Broekman, jointly announced this new report, underscoring Atlas’ unwavering commitment to environmental and social responsibility 

“‘Caring for the World We Carry’ embodies our commitment to doing business the right way, and in 2023, we made meaningful progress in our sustainability performance. Through collaboration with our customers and strategic partners, we are championing initiatives aimed at promoting environmental sustainability within aviation. We have also strengthened our workforce development programs, in line with our goals to serve as a catalyst for nurturing tomorrow’s aviators, as we work to fulfill our mission to power our customers’ global supply chain.” said Michael Steen, Chief Executive Officer, Atlas Air Worldwide. “All our work is supported by a strong governance structure underscored by the appointment of the Company’s first Head of Sustainability.” 

“It is an honor to lead Atlas’ decarbonization strategy and work with our customers to help them achieve their business goals while also upholding our shared sustainability commitments,” said Richard Broekman, Chief Commercial Officer and Head of Sustainability. “Sustainability is integral to our operations, making a positive impact on both our business and our customers’ supply chains. In 2023, we made strides in enhancing our decarbonization strategy, focusing on sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) procurement, operational efficiencies and fleet modernization. By partnering with industry leaders, we launched the Sustainable Engine Alliance and pioneered regular SAF use on cargo flights in Spain. We’re also spearheading unique collaborations aimed at advocating for wider SAF adoption, developing innovative carbon reduction solutions and optimizing operations with cutting-edge technologies. Despite challenges, our dedication to sustainability remains unwavering, propelling progress toward a greener future within the communities we serve.” 

The report outlines the Company’s progress across four strategic pillars: Preserve Our Planet, Care for Our People, Maximize Social Impact and Grow Responsibly. 

Through these pillars, Atlas continues to demonstrate its role in powering our customers’ global supply chains while advancing decarbonization efforts and fostering a culture of innovation and responsibility. 

Key highlights from the 2023 Sustainability Report include: 

Preserve Our Planet 

  • Enhanced the decarbonization strategy through a comprehensive, cross-functional action plan, with each initiative prioritized by COimpact, ROI and feasibility.   
  • Saved nearly 36,000 metric tons of CO2 and more than 3.7 million gallons of fuel by utilizing and tracking fuel-saving best practices.  
  • Announced a partnership with customer Inditex to incorporate 5% sustainable aviation fuel for all flights departing from Zaragoza Airport in Spain.  
  • Launched the Sustainable Engine Alliance with Kuehne+Nagel and SR Technics Group, which earned a Laureate Award from Aviation Week Network Magazine.  
  • Implemented a Lean Management 5S program at Atlas’ Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky facility to enhance workflow efficiency, reduce errors and minimize waste. 

Care for Our People 

  • Ensured active employee engagement through various feedback channels, including engagement surveys, feedback loops, CEO Round Table discussions, Company-wide Town Halls and Human Resources Town Square discussions.  
  • Increased safety performance and culture through rigorous training, a steadfast focus on mitigating risks and an unwavering attention to protocols outlined in Atlas’ updated Safety Management System (SMS).  
  • Achieved tangible progress in the journey toward diversity and inclusion highlighted by talent acquisition programs and pipelines, and a new employee resource group (ERG) dedicated to fostering a culture of acceptance and inclusivity at Atlas. 
  • Developed pilot training programs, including a tailored mentorship program designed to enhance pilot leadership skills and partnered with Visionary Training Resources (VTR) to develop a virtual reality learning tool for pilot simulator training. 

Maximize Social Impact 

  • Spent nearly $240 million supporting small and diverse businesses and nearly doubled the spending goal for veteran-owned small businesses. 
  • Expanded opportunities for employees to participate in student outreach and inspire future science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) professionals through programs such as Atlas Air Ambassadors. 
  • Partnered with Turkish Airlines and the Turkish Embassy to transport critical relief supplies to thousands of earthquake victims in Turkey and Syria. 
  • Raised record-breaking funds totaling approximately $123,000 benefiting K9s For Warriors, the nation’s largest provider of trained service dogs to military veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), traumatic brain injury and/or military sexual trauma. 

Grow Responsibly 

  • Enhanced the Company’s oversight of sustainability with the formation of the Board-level Safety & ESG Committee and the appointment of Atlas’ first Head of Sustainability. 
  • Partnered with the Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) to join the Joint Cyber Defense Collaborative (JCDC), a new effort to lead the development and execution of cyber defense operations plans to decrease incident risk. 
  • Continued to advance Atlas’ key advocacy initiatives furthering sustainability efforts, bolstering the aviation workforce and supporting global 

To learn more about Atlas Air Worldwide’s sustainability efforts, view the 2023 Sustainability Report: Sustainability – Atlas Air Worldwide 

White Plains, N.Y., May 30, 2024 Atlas Air Worldwide Holdings, Inc. (“Atlas” or the “Company”), a leading global provider of outsourced aviation logistics, today announced the release of its 2023 Sustainability Report.

Atlas’ fifth report showcases the Company’s advancement in fulfilling its sustainability objectives. Through sustained initiatives and programs, Atlas has made strides across the four key pillars in its sustainability strategy: Preserve Our Planet, Care for our People, Maximize Social Impact and Grow Responsibly.

“‘Caring for the World We Carry’ embodies our commitment to doing business the right way, and in 2023, we made meaningful progress in our sustainability performance. Through collaboration with our customers and strategic partners, we are championing initiatives aimed at promoting environmental sustainability within aviation. We have also strengthened our workforce development programs, in line with our goals to serve as a catalyst for nurturing tomorrow’s aviators, as we work to fulfill our mission to power our customers’ global supply chain.” said Michael Steen, Chief Executive Officer, Atlas Air Worldwide. “All our work is supported by a strong governance structure underscored by the appointment of the Company’s first Head of Sustainability.”

“It is an honor to lead Atlas’ decarbonization strategy and work with our customers to help them achieve their business goals while also upholding our shared sustainability commitments,” said Richard Broekman, Chief Commercial Officer and Head of Sustainability. “Sustainability is integral to our operations, making a positive impact on both our business and our customers’ supply chains. In 2023, we made strides in enhancing our decarbonization strategy, focusing on sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) procurement, operational efficiencies and fleet modernization. By partnering with industry leaders, we launched the Sustainable Engine Alliance and pioneered regular SAF use on cargo flights in Spain. We’re also spearheading unique collaborations aimed at advocating for wider SAF adoption, developing innovative carbon reduction solutions and optimizing operations with cutting-edge technologies. Despite challenges, our dedication to sustainability remains unwavering, propelling progress toward a greener future within the communities we serve.”

Key highlights of the 2023 Sustainability Report include:

Preserve Our Planet

  • Enhanced the decarbonization strategy through a comprehensive, cross-functional action plan, with each initiative prioritized by CO2 impact, ROI and feasibility.
  • Saved nearly 36,000 metric tons of CO2 and more than 3.7 million gallons of fuel by utilizing and tracking fuel-saving best practices.
  • Announced a partnership with customer Inditex to incorporate 5% sustainable aviation fuel for all flights departing from Zaragoza Airport in Spain.
  • Launched the Sustainable Engine Alliance with Kuehne+Nagel and SR Technics Group, which earned a Laureate Award from Aviation Week Network Magazine.
  • Implemented a Lean Management 5S program at Atlas’ Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky facility to enhance workflow efficiency, reduce errors and minimize waste.

Care for Our People

  • Ensured active employee engagement through various feedback channels, including engagement surveys, feedback loops, CEO Round Table discussions, Company-wide Town Halls and Human Resources Town Square discussions.
  • Increased safety performance and culture through rigorous training, a steadfast focus on mitigating risks and an unwavering attention to protocols outlined in Atlas’ updated Safety Management System (SMS).
  • Achieved tangible progress in the journey toward diversity and inclusion highlighted by talent acquisition programs and pipelines, and a new employee resource group (ERG) dedicated to fostering a culture of acceptance and inclusivity at Atlas.
  • Developed pilot training programs, including a tailored mentorship program designed to enhance pilot leadership skills and partnered with Visionary Training Resources (VTR) to develop a virtual reality learning tool for pilot simulator training.

Maximize Social Impact

  • Spent nearly $240 million supporting small and diverse businesses and nearly doubled the spending goal for veteran-owned small businesses.
  • Expanded opportunities for employees to participate in student outreach and inspire future science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) professionals through programs such as Atlas Air Ambassadors.
  • Partnered with Turkish Airlines and the Turkish Embassy to transport critical relief supplies to thousands of earthquake victims in Turkey and Syria.
  • Raised record-breaking funds totaling approximately $123,000 benefiting K9s For Warriors, the nation’s largest provider of trained service dogs to military veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), traumatic brain injury and/or military sexual trauma.

Grow Responsibly

  • Enhanced the Company’s oversight of sustainability with the formation of the Board-level Safety & ESG Committee and the appointment of Atlas’ first Head of Sustainability.
  • Partnered with the Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) to join the Joint Cyber Defense Collaborative (JCDC), a new effort to lead the development and execution of cyber defense operations plans to decrease incident risk.
  • Continued to advance Atlas’ key advocacy initiatives furthering sustainability efforts, bolstering the aviation workforce and supporting global trade.

To learn more about Atlas Air Worldwide’s sustainability efforts, visit its sustainability website.

About Atlas Air Worldwide

Atlas Air Worldwide is a leading global provider of outsourced aircraft and aviation operating services. It is the parent company of Atlas Air, Inc., and Titan Aviation Holdings, Inc., and is the majority shareholder of Polar Air Cargo Worldwide, Inc. Our companies operate the world’s largest fleet of 747 freighter aircraft and provide customers the broadest array of Boeing 747, 777, 767 and 737 aircraft for domestic, regional and international cargo and passenger operations.

White Plains, N.Y., March 28, 2024 – Atlas Air Inc., a subsidiary of Atlas Air Worldwide Holdings, Inc., a leading global provider of outsourced aviation logistics, today announced the expansion of its strategic partnership with YunExpress, a subsidiary of Zongteng Group, by adding a second Boeing 777-200 freighter under a long-term charter agreement.

Deepening the successful relationship between Atlas and YunExpress, this second 777 freighter will enter service for YunExpress in April and operate six weekly routes between China and the United States. The new flying will enhance YunExpress’ international logistics network and help it serve the increasing demand for cross-border e-Commerce shipping from China.

“We are delighted to expand our strategic and long-term partnership with YunExpress,” said Michael Steen, Chief Executive Officer, Atlas Air Worldwide. “Cross-border e-Commerce is driving significant demand for Atlas’ dedicated large widebody freighter capacity. Through our partnership with YunExpress, we are strengthening our position as the preferred supplier of dedicated airfreight capacity to leading players in the e-Commerce industry. Atlas has unmatched global operating capabilities and high-quality solutions that power our customers’ global supply chains.”

Wang Zuan, President of Zongteng Group, stated: “Last December, YunExpress, in collaboration with Atlas, launched charter service between Xiamen, China and Miami utilizing a 777 freighter, which has been operating with solid performance. The signing of this new long-term agreement further deepens and strengthens the strategic partnership between us. Through YunExpress, we aim to meet the growing demand for airfreight capacity between China, Europe and North America. Looking ahead, we aim to further expand routes and fleet size to provide customers with more convenient and diverse global transportation options, ensure supply chain resilience, and support the steady development and growth of our customers’ international businesses.”

About Atlas Air Worldwide:

Atlas Air Worldwide is a leading global provider of outsourced aircraft and aviation operating services. It is the parent company of Atlas Air, Inc., and Titan Aviation Holdings, Inc., and is the majority shareholder of Polar Air Cargo Worldwide, Inc. Our companies operate the world’s largest fleet of 747 freighter aircraft and provide customers the broadest array of Boeing 747, 777, 767 and 737 aircraft for domestic, regional, and international cargo and passenger operations. Learn more at www.atlasairworldwide.com.

Atlas Air Worldwide, Kuehne+Nagel and SR Technics were honored with the Aviation Week 2023-2024 Laureate Award in the Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) category on March 14 during the Awards ceremony in Washington, D.C. The award recognizes the exceptional achievements of the Sustainable Engine Alliance, a collaborative effort between the three companies, aimed at revolutionizing aircraft engine supply chains for sustainability.

The Alliance was established in April 2023 with the goal of setting new industry standards for low-carbon aircraft engine supply chains. The Alliance’s innovative approach includes leveraging digital services to enhance emissions transparency, adopting sustainable aviation fuels, and implementing engine stand management solutions to reduce environmental impact.

Camille Fleenor, Vice President, Government Affairs and Public Policy, Kevin Martin, Vice President, Procurement, Jonathan Swetnam, Senior Director, Powerplants and Tyler Conklin, Legal Counsel, Labor and Employment, represented Atlas at the event, which was attended by more than 400 executives and thought leaders from the aviation industry.

“It was an honor to accept this recognition on behalf of Atlas alongside our esteemed partners, SR Technics and Kuehne+Nagel,” said Jonathan. “This award is a testament to our shared commitment to advancing sustainability within the aerospace industry and driving meaningful change for the future of aviation.”

Atlas is proud to be part of the Sustainable Engine Alliance and remains committed to championing sustainability initiatives that benefit the aviation industry and the planet.

Atlas Aviation Week Network’s 66th Laureate Awards

Kevin Martin, Tyler Conklin, Camille Fleenor and Jonathan Swetnam represent Atlas during Aviation Week Network’s 66th Laureate Awards

Atlas Air Worldwide, Kuehne+Nagel and SR Technics were honored with the Aviation Week 2023-2024 Laureate Award in the Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) category on March 14 during the Awards ceremony in Washington, D.C. The award recognizes the exceptional achievements of the Sustainable Engine Alliance, a collaborative effort between the three companies, aimed at revolutionizing aircraft engine supply chains for sustainability.

The Alliance was established in April 2023 with the goal of setting new industry standards for low-carbon aircraft engine supply chains. The Alliance’s innovative approach includes leveraging digital services to enhance emissions transparency, adopting sustainable aviation fuels, and implementing engine stand management solutions to reduce environmental impact.

Camille Fleenor, Vice President, Government Affairs and Public Policy, Kevin Martin, Vice President, Procurement, Jonathan Swetnam, Senior Director, Powerplants and Tyler Conklin, Legal Counsel, Labor and Employment represented Atlas at the event, which was attended by more than 400 executives and thought leaders from the aviation industry.

“It was an honor to accept this recognition on behalf of Atlas alongside our esteemed partners, SR Technics and Kuehne+Nagel,” said Jonathan. “This award is a testament to our shared commitment to advancing sustainability within the aerospace industry and driving meaningful change for the future of aviation.”

Atlas is proud to be part of the Sustainable Engine Alliance and remains committed to championing sustainability initiatives that benefit the aviation industry and the planet.

To view all Atlas Air awards and corporate recognition, visit www.atlasairworldwide.com/about-us/corporate-recognition/

737 Captains Dorothea Flockenhaus and Deanna Stack Take Flight with Atlas Air's All-Women Crew on International Women’s Day in Celebration of Women in Aviation

Atlas Air 737 Captains Dorothea Flockenhaus and Deanna Stack

Atlas Air Worldwide celebrated a very special all-female flight crew on March 8 to commemorate both International Women’s Day and Women of Aviation Worldwide Week, an annual observance dedicated to recognizing women’s contributions to the air and space industry.

Atlas Air 737 Captains Dorothea Flockenhaus and Deanna Stack departed Alliance Airport (AFW) in Fort Worth, Texas to Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG). Prior to their flight, both captains took a moment to share insights to inspire others to pursue careers in aviation and break down the barriers that have historically limited opportunities for women in the field.

“I find incredible joy in this industry and flying because we have the privilege of soaring to new heights and exploring unique destinations around the globe that many people may never have the opportunity to visit,” said Captain Stack. “The women and young girls aspiring to join this profession have no limitations to what they can achieve.”

“This is a dynamic industry that is ever-changing and offers an office view like no other,” said Captain Flockenhaus. “To the young women considering a career in aviation, my advice is simple: Seize the opportunity! Embrace your fears and forge ahead – the rewards are unparalleled. It’s deeply fulfilling and takes you across the world, ensuring you’ll never feel like a stranger anywhere and you’ll always find your way home.”

Atlas Air was also the first airline to feature an all-woman crew on the 747 in 2002. The flight, piloted by Captain Gina Buhl and First Officer Delphine Nowicki, departed from Stansted Airport (STN) to operate to Frankfurt (FRA).

These flights serve as a powerful reminder of the progress that has been made toward achieving gender equality in aviation. As the first cargo airline to ratify 25by2025, a global initiative led by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) to enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) in the aviation industry, Atlas has a longstanding commitment to fostering greater inclusion and gender balance in the sector. Through initiatives like this, the Company celebrates the accomplishments of women across the field and actively contributes to shaping a more inclusive future for the industry.

Learn more about Atlas Air Worldwide’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion at http://www.atlasairworldwide.com/esg-pages/social/

Atlas Air Worldwide celebrated a very special all-female flight crew on March 8 to commemorate both International Women’s Day and Women of Aviation Worldwide Week, an annual observance dedicated to recognizing women’s contributions to the air and space industry.

737 Captains Dorothea Flockenhaus and Deanna Stack Take Flight with Atlas Air's All-Women Crew on International Women’s Day in Celebration of Women in Aviation

Atlas Air 737 Captains Dorothea Flockenhaus and Deanna Stack

Atlas Air 737 Captains Dorothea Flockenhaus and Deanna Stack departed Alliance

Airport (AFW) in Fort Worth, Texas to Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG). Prior to their flight, both captains took a moment to share insights to inspire others to pursue careers in aviation and break down the barriers that have historically limited opportunities for women in the field.

“I find incredible joy in this industry and flying because we have the privilege of soaring to new heights and exploring unique destinations around the globe that many people may never have the opportunity to visit,” said Captain Stack. “The women and young girls aspiring to join this profession have no limitations to what they can achieve.”

“This is a dynamic industry that is ever-changing and offers an office view like no other,” said Captain Flockenhaus. “To the young women considering a career in aviation, my advice is simple: Seize the opportunity! Embrace your fears and forge ahead – the rewards are unparalleled. It’s deeply fulfilling and takes you across the world, ensuring you’ll never feel like a stranger anywhere and you’ll always find your way home.”

Atlas Air was also the first airline to feature an all-woman crew on the 747 in 2002. The flight, piloted by Captain Gina Buhl and First Officer Delphine Nowicki, departed from Stansted Airport (STN) to operate to Frankfurt (FRA).

These flights serve as a powerful reminder of the progress that has been made toward achieving gender equality in aviation. As the first cargo airline to ratify 25by2025, a global initiative led by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) to enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) in the aviation industry, Atlas has a longstanding commitment to fostering greater inclusion and gender balance in the sector. Through initiatives like this, the Company celebrates the accomplishments of women across the field and actively contributes to shaping a more inclusive future for the industry.

More information on Atlas Air can be found at www.atlasairworldwide.com.

Atlas Air, official sponsor and travel charter partner to the Miami Dolphins, recently invited Dolphins offensive lineman Robert Hunt to take his skills off the field and into the flight deck to experience what it takes to be a pilot. Fans can watch Hunt as he swaps his cleats for wings in a special behind-the-scene feature, released today.

Hunt joined Atlas Air 747 Fleet Captain Thomas Vize and 747 Captain Joe Masone, in one of Atlas’ 747 flight simulators to learn flying fundamentals, from takeoff to landing. The experience blended the worlds of aviation and sport, two professions that both require an immense amount of training, focus and execution.

“It’s always our great pleasure to fly Rob and his teammates as our passengers, and now we had the amazing experience to fly alongside Rob in our 747 training simulator,” said Captain Vize. “It was incredible to see how much our crew has in common with professional football players. Rob works with his team in one of the most challenging environments, running play after play with a high level of success and safety. Same here at Atlas, where our core value is Safety and we fly over 60,000 flights a year to deliver for our customers. It takes a team to win, both on the field and in the skies.”

Atlas is proud to fly the Miami Dolphins throughout the football season around the US and internationally, transporting more than 150 players, coaches and support staff along with their luggage, equipment and cargo in Atlas’ custom VIP Boeing 747-400.

Watch the full video here.

More information on Atlas Air can be found at www.atlasairworldwide.com.