Kenya Airways has successfully completed its first flight powered by 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) on the Nairobi–Cape Town route.
The SAF used for the journey was produced from Hydroprocessed Esters and Fatty Acids (HEFA) feedstocks, derived from waste materials such as used cooking oil. According to the airline, the fuel was verified through recognized certification systems to ensure both transparency and traceability.
“This flight demonstrates what collaboration and innovation can achieve. It marks a step toward practical solutions that lower our environmental impact while maintaining operational efficiency,” said Hellen Mwariri, Kenya Airways’ Chief Strategy and Innovation Officer.
Alongside SAF use, Kenya Airways has implemented additional eco-friendly measures to reduce its carbon footprint, including the introduction of reusable cutlery, local sourcing of food items, and enhanced waste recycling.
The airline also stated that it is working closely with government agencies, local innovators, and global partners such as IATA, SkyTeam, and AFRAA to develop domestic SAF production capabilities in Kenya by 2026.
