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K Line sailing forward with Airseas

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Japanese shipowner K Line is installing as an Airseas kite on the front of one its bulk carriers with an aim of 20% reduction in CO2 emissions, and could install up to 50 more.

In another sign that wind propulsion may make a comeback as shipping companies look to cut emissions K Line is installing a Seawing kite developed by Airbus spin off Airseas under a 20-year agreement.

The automated Seawing kite is mounted to the bow of the vessel and can be unfolded from the bridge for use in suitable wind conditions to assist in propulsion of the bulk carrier.

K Line said it would carry out an “intense assessment” of the Seawing's performance and technology for two years. The aim is to reduce CO2 emissions annually by more than 5,200 tons or more than 20% on a capesize bulker. On successful installation of the Seawing K Line said it contemplate ordering up to 50 more.

Beyond reducing our emissions by more than 20% with its kite, AIRSEAS is a top end digital partner looking at integrating their solution with our “Kawasaki Integrated Maritime Solutions” which is integrated vessel operation and performance management system in order to smartly manage our vessel operation," said Atsuo Asano, senior managing executive officer of K Line.

Seawing reduces the environmental footprint of capsize vessel by 5,200 tons of CO2 per year depending on the vessel voyage route, that is contributing to achieving our goal to reduce CO2 emissions by half, targeting year 2050, in K Line Environmental Vision 2050.”

The agreement with K Line represnts a breakthrough for Airseas. "With this deal, Aiseas will kick-start its industrial scale up. Seawing’s innovative technology will become a leading energy efficient solution for the shipping industry, thus contributing to cleaner sky and oceans.” said Vincent Bernatets, ceo of Airseas.