Commercial aviation, as one of the sectors with the highest environmental impact per distance traveled, faces increasing pressure to adopt technologies that mitigate emissions without compromising safety or operational efficiency. In this context, academic research at the graduate level plays a crucial role in analyzing technical strategies that not only optimize aircraft performance but also contribute to more sustainable aviation practices. This study focuses on the FLEX technique, a takeoff procedure that reduces engine thrust under specific conditions, resulting in lower mechanical wear, fuel savings, and a significant reduction in pollutant emissions.

The objective of the research was to analyze the environmental and operational impact of the FLEX technique in turbofan engines, identifying its benefits in terms of energy efficiency, maintenance cost reduction, and its contribution to achieving environmental goals within the aviation industry. The analysis was developed within an educational and scientific framework, as part of an environmental research line in a graduate aerospace engineering program.

The methodology combined a literature review in scientific databases, a detailed technical analysis of engine takeoff performance, thermodynamic modeling through the Brayton cycle, and a study of Exhaust Gas Temperature (EGT) margins. Additional data were gathered on reduced thrust usage, considering key variables such as ambient temperature, altitude, aircraft weight, and engine performance parameters.

The results showed that appropriate implementation of the FLEX technique not only reduces engine wear and extends its service life but also contributes to the reduction of CO₂ and nitrogen oxide emissions. This positions FLEX as a viable tool for environmental mitigation in aviation. The research highlights the importance of integrating sustainability and technological innovation within academic training, shaping engineers who are environmentally aware and technically proficient.

Keywords: Environmental education, Aeronautical Engineering, FLEX technique, sustainability.