As our name implies, Atlas has a mighty story to tell.
Atlas Air Worldwide is the leading global provider of outsourced aviation logistics, and the second largest mover of air freight in the world. Our company operates the world’s largest fleet of widebody freighters, and 15% of the world’s total widebody fleet is owned, operated or managed by our companies, Atlas Air, Polar Air Cargo and Titan Aviation Holdings, a freighter-centric leasing company. It is likely that no other airline flies to as many destinations as we do with their own aircraft: in 2024, we flew 59,000 flights to over 330 airports in over 80 countries.
We are proud to serve in an industry that is a powerful catalyst for international trade, driving innovation and enhancing efficiency throughout global supply chains. Our industry forms the backbone of the world economy, facilitating the movement of goods, people, capital and technology – ultimately fueling broader economic and social advancement.
As the company that carries the world, it is both our greatest privilege and responsibility to care for the world we carry. In this sixth annual Sustainability Report, I am pleased to share how our commitment to sustainable business practices contributes meaningfully to our vision while creating lasting value for all stakeholders.
2024 was a pivotal year for Atlas as we formalized our “One Atlas” strategy – the framework guiding our mission to power our customers’ supply chains.
Our strategy stands on four key pillars:
Importantly, sustainability isn’t a standalone initiative – it’s integral to our value creation. The strength of our unique business model – anchored in long-term agreements with a diverse roster of blue-chip customers across the global supply chain – provides the foundation needed to make strategic investments in fleet modernization and environmental initiatives while delivering social impact in the communities we serve. This balance between business performance and long-term responsibility defines our leadership approach.
Every decision, from aircraft acquisition and route planning, to customer partnerships and industry collaborations, considers both business outcomes and environmental impact. In 2024, we added eight widebody freighters to our fleet, including more fuel-efficient Boeing 747-8s and 777s. These additions advance our carbon reduction commitments while meeting customer needs and environmental goals, particularly as we retire older, less efficient aircraft in the coming years.
Our sustainability commitments extend beyond environmental stewardship. Our employees are at the heart of our One Atlas strategy, and we prioritize their well-being by maintaining the highest safety standards across our operations. We continue to execute strategic initiatives to support professional development, which helps us to build a thriving culture where our teams are engaged and empowered to achieve success.
While we’re proud of this year’s achievements, we recognize that our journey continues. This report details the additional rigor we’ve brought to our sustainability strategy and reflects our commitment to transparency and continuous improvement.
The progress outlined here reflects the dedication of our approximately 5,000 employees worldwide. Their commitment to excellence, innovation and responsible practices drives our success every day. Our business performance and sustainability commitments are inextricably linked, and we look forward to working with peers, partners and customers to accelerate progress in the years ahead.
Michael Steen
Chief Executive Officer, Atlas Air Worldwide
The air cargo industry is evolving rapidly, and we are committed to staying ahead by embracing new technologies, collaborating with industry leaders and maintaining the resilience needed to navigate an increasingly complex global trade environment.
As we advance our sustainability efforts, I am proud to share the progress we made in our commitments and driving meaningful change. In 2024, we expanded our core Sustainability team, deepened collaboration with employees and key industry partners, and launched initiatives that support both our customers’ and our own decarbonization goals. Sustainability is more than a responsibility for Atlas—it is a catalyst for innovation and long-term success.
A key pillar of our progress is the expansion of our sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) program for customers. We continue to work closely with fuel providers to increase SAF availability while enhancing purchasing options that help customers reduce logistics costs and lower their supply chain emissions. However, more action is needed for the industry to be able to reach its carbon reduction goals. Scaling SAF requires broader industry commitment and government support. Through collaborations like the Sustainable Engine Alliance, Smart Freight Centre and the SAF Coalition, we collaborate with industry partners to accelerate adoption, advocate for supportive policies and drive investment in sustainable fuel production.
Beyond SAF, we are integrating sustainability across our operations to further benefit customers. For example, we advance fuel efficiency through pilot training, operational initiatives such as continuous descent approaches and collaboration with air traffic organizations and implemented dynamic routing trials to equip pilots with real-time data for better fuel planning and in-flight adjustments. Additionally, we continue to invest in innovative aircraft solutions to enhance customer service, boost operational efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.
Sustainable business practices, alongside our initiatives supporting people and communities, position Atlas as a leading employer and innovator in the air cargo industry. By integrating sustainability into all aspects of our operations, we are driving both environmental progress and long-term value for our employees, customers and stakeholders.
As we look ahead, we invite our stakeholders to join us in shaping the future of sustainable air logistics. Customer, supplier and employee insights and collaboration are essential as we continue to innovate and refine solutions that drive meaningful impact. To learn more about our sustainability efforts or explore opportunities to align on climate goals, we encourage you to connect with us. Together, we can accelerate the transition to a more sustainable and resilient supply chain.
Richard Broekman
Chief Commercial Officer & Head of Sustainability, Atlas Air Worldwide
