Kenya Airways Sets a New Benchmark for Eco-Friendly Air Travel with Inaugural 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel Flight, Cutting Greenhouse Gas Emissions by Up to 85% in Intra-African Routes

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Kenya Airways has set a significant milestone in the aviation industry with its inaugural flight using 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) on an intra-African route. This move not only aligns with global efforts to reduce aviation’s carbon footprint but also marks a groundbreaking achievement for the airline. By utilizing SAF, which can cut greenhouse gas emissions by up to 85%, Kenya Airways is demonstrating its commitment to eco-friendly air travel. This pioneering step is a crucial part of the airline’s strategy to integrate more sustainable practices into its operations, helping drive the industry towards a greener future while enhancing its role in Africa’s growing aviation sector.

Kenya Airways has successfully completed its inaugural intra-African flight using 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), in accordance with international standards set by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the Carbon Offset and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA). This significant achievement marks a major step towards reducing the carbon emissions of air travel within Africa.

The SAF used by the airline is verified through globally recognized certification systems, ensuring traceability and transparency. The fuel is produced from Hydroprocessed Esters and Fatty Acids (HEFA) feedstocks, which include waste materials like used cooking oil. When produced and utilized directly, SAF can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 85% compared to conventional jet fuel.

Kenya Airways achieved a 50% SAF-equivalent operation on its Nairobi to Cape Town route, underscoring its commitment to reducing emissions across its network. This flight is part of the SkyTeam Aviation Challenge 2025 (TAC), which focuses on the theme of “Impact,” highlighting practical initiatives that foster sustainability within the aviation industry.

In addition to the fuel innovation, the airline introduced several initiatives on board to further promote sustainability:

• Inflight Products: Reusable cutlery, upcycled blanket bags, and headset covers to minimize waste.
• Catering: Kenyan coffee and tea sourced locally, canned beverages replacing plastic bottles, and reusable cups for hot drinks.
• Waste Management: Recycling of waste generated on board and reusing service items.
• People: Cabin crew played an active role in educating passengers about sustainable practices.

This flight represents a tangible commitment to greener air travel, paving the way for future initiatives to reduce the environmental impact of aviation across Africa.

Kenya Airways has made a groundbreaking leap in sustainable aviation by operating its first flight with 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) on an intra-African route. This move significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions, cutting them by up to 85%. The airline’s commitment to SAF highlights its leadership in eco-friendly travel, setting a new standard for the African aviation industry and contributing to global sustainability goals.

Hellen Mwariri, Chief Strategy & Innovation Officer, noted :“This flight shows what can be
achieved through collaboration and innovation. It’s a step toward practical solutions that reduce
our impact while keeping operations efficient.”

Kenya Airways is actively collaborating with government bodies, local innovators, and global partners such as IATA, SkyTeam, and AFRAA to establish domestic SAF production capabilities in Kenya by 2026.