Virgin Australia has partnered with Viva Energy to supply Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) for its flights departing from Proserpine, Queensland, between March and July 2025.
SAF, derived from renewable resources like waste oils, agricultural residues, and non-food crops, is seen as a key factor in the aviation industry’s efforts to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. This fuel offers significantly lower lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions than conventional jet fuel.
As part of the agreement, Viva Energy will provide Virgin Australia with SAF, which will include a 30-40% synthetic blend made from waste and residue feedstocks, mixed with Jet A1. This blend is compatible with existing aircraft and fueling infrastructure while meeting all regulatory and safety standards.
This collaboration will allow Viva Energy to expand its SAF-blended jet fuel supply across Australia, utilizing its infrastructure while exploring regional delivery, storage, handling, and direct fueling options.
Christian Bennett, Virgin Australia’s Chief Corporate Affairs and Sustainability Officer, highlighted that the partnership with Viva Energy is an important step in the airline’s sustainability journey. He emphasized the crucial role of alternative fuels like SAF in reducing carbon emissions.
“SAF is a critical long-term opportunity for commercial aviation to meet its 2050 net-zero emissions goal,” Bennett said. “Successful adoption of SAF in Australia will require partnerships, policy development, and collaborations like this one with Viva Energy. Making SAF affordable and accessible will be key to achieving low-cost carbon abatement while maintaining aviation’s vital role in connecting Australian communities.”
Nick Adams, General Manager for Aviation at Viva Energy, noted that this collaboration is an important step in securing a reliable SAF supply for regional air travel in Australia.
“SAF will play a bigger role in the country’s commercial aviation industry as it moves towards sustainability,” he said. “By leveraging Viva Energy’s national distribution network and experience in aviation fuel supply, we’ll work with Virgin Australia to build supply chains that will be essential for the future of the industry. We’re excited to support Virgin Australia in its sustainability efforts.”
Ry Collins, Mayor of Whitsunday Regional Council, welcomed the introduction of SAF at Whitsunday Coast Airport, describing it as a perfect fit given the region’s commitment to sustainable tourism and its close ties to the Great Barrier Reef.
“It’s fantastic that Virgin Australia has chosen Whitsunday Coast Airport as the site for its first ongoing SAF-powered flights,” said Mayor Collins. “We are dedicated to driving initiatives that create world-class bio-products, so I commend Virgin Australia and Viva Energy for their commitment to SAF and for choosing the Whitsundays as a showcase for sustainable aviation. As the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, we have a responsibility to reduce our environmental footprint and embrace innovative solutions.”
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