The M/V Vectis Progress, a general cargo vessel operated by Carisbrooke Shipping, has become the first to incorporate the innovative AirWing wind propulsion technology , developed by the British company GT Wings. The vessel has set sail from Hull, UK, bound for Bilbao and will subsequently continue its journey to Canada.
A key step in maritime decarbonisation
The installation of the AirWing system marks a significant step forward in reducing emissions in maritime transport. This system harnesses the power of the wind to reduce dependence on the main engine, resulting in lower fuel consumption and, therefore, a reduction in the carbon footprint of the shipping industry.
According to GT Wings, this technology can reduce fuel consumption by up to 8.3% under standard conditions, and its effectiveness could be even greater on routes with favorable winds, such as the one followed by the Vectis Progress on its transatlantic journey.
Government funding for AirWing wind propulsion
AirWing technology has been made possible by multiple funding sources backed by the UK government. In October 2024, the company received a £225,000 grant through the Smart Shipping Acceleration Fund (SSAF), a programme supported by the UK Department for Transport (DfT), aimed at supporting the initial development of AirWing technology.
In addition, the project has received £3.7 million in funding through the Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition Round 4 (CMDC4) programme, with the aim of accelerating the adoption of innovative solutions in the shipping industry and contributing to the decarbonisation of the sector. This support has enabled the development of AirWing and its implementation on the Vectis Progress for testing in real-life navigation conditions.
real time monitoring
To evaluate the AirWing’s performance in real-world conditions, George Thompson, founder and CEO of GT Wings, is accompanying the flight aboard the Vectis Progress . During the journey, he will share data and analysis on the system’s performance , allowing it to be fine-tuned and optimized in the future.
One of the AirWing’s key features is its adaptability to different types of vessels , facilitating its implementation in the global commercial fleet. Its modular design allows for efficient installation, without the need for significant structural modifications, making it a viable option for the shipping industry looking for sustainable alternatives.
With this maiden voyage, GT Wings aims to demonstrate the real impact of wind propulsion on modern shipping and position the AirWing as a key solution on the path to cleaner and more efficient maritime transport.
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Source and photos: GT Wings
