Travel firm to save money with E-Leather
26/09/2008
UK-based travel firm Thomas Cook has decided to use a recycled leather product, known as E-Leather, in aircraft upholstery, arguing that the move will allow it to save money, while still offering passengers the benefits of leather seating.
Produced by a company in Peterborough using 75%-80% recycled leather fibre, and supplementing it with textiles, E-Leather is 25% lighter than natural leather. This weight saving, an estimated 25% compared to the weight of a leather-covered seat, will translate into substantial fuel cost savings for operators like Thomas Cook. The manufacturer also argues that its product is more durable and easier to clean.
To begin with, Thomas Cook will use the material to cover the seats in six 323-seater Airbus A330-200 aircraft. It estimates that savings in fuel costs could be $70,000 a year for each plane.
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