Singapore Airlines Aims for 5% Sustainable Fuel Usage by 2030

15 Nov, 2023

Singapore Airlines Aims for 5% Sustainable Fuel Usage by 2030

In a major stride towards sustainable aviation, Singapore Airlines, accompanied by its subsidiary Scoot, has set an ambitious target: incorporating sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) for 5% of its total fuel requirements by 2030. This bold initiative underscores the airline's commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and contributing to the broader industry goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

SAF, renowned for its ability to slash carbon emissions by up to 80% compared to traditional kerosene-based jet fuel, has emerged as a crucial element in the aviation sector's quest for environmental responsibility. Goh Choon Phong, the CEO of Singapore Airlines, emphasized the pivotal role sustainable fuels will play in their decarbonization strategy. He stressed the importance of collaboration, stating that partnerships with global stakeholders are essential for meeting collective sustainability targets.

The airline is actively engaged in ongoing discussions with fuel suppliers, aiming to secure a more significant supply of SAF. This proactive approach aligns with Singapore Airlines' history of embracing sustainable initiatives. Notably, the carrier utilized "drop-in" SAF, blended with traditional fuel, for select flights, including routes between Singapore and San Francisco in 2017. Additionally, a year-long partnership with Swedish airport operator Swedavia in 2020 further showcased the airline's commitment to exploring sustainable alternatives.

Singapore Airlines recently concluded a 20-month SAF pilot scheme, blending 1,000 tonnes of the fuel in Singapore for flights departing from Changi airport. This initiative served as a practical step towards integrating sustainable practices into their operational framework.

This commitment to sustainable aviation is part of a broader industry trend. Virgin Atlantic's recent approval from the UK's Civil Aviation Authority to operate the first transatlantic flight powered entirely by SAF is a testament to the global push for greener skies. Scheduled for November 28, this milestone flight from London to New York exemplifies the industry's collective efforts in adopting sustainable alternatives.

In essence, Singapore Airlines is not only setting a benchmark for its own sustainability but is also contributing to the broader narrative of environmentally responsible aviation. As the industry grapples with the imperative to address climate change, Singapore Airlines emerges as a leader, paving the way for a future where sustainable aviation becomes the norm rather than the exception.