Air New Zealand has taken a significant step in its sustainability journey by securing over 30 million liters of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) from Neste.
This substantial purchase, becomes the airline’s largest SAF purchase to date. The fuel will be uplifted from Los Angeles and San Francisco through February 2026.
The Shift Towards Sustainability
By utilizing SAF, Air New Zealand aims to reduce carbon emissions by up to 80% compared to traditional fossil fuel-based jet fuel. This commitment to sustainable practices is evident in the airline’s ambitious target of using 10% SAF by 2030.
For the fiscal year 2025, this SAF purchase will account for 1.6% of the airline’s total fuel supply. This represents a remarkable fourfold increase from the previous year. This significant leap demonstrates Air New Zealand’s dedication to reducing its environmental impact and contributing to a greener aviation industry.
Kiri Hannifin, Air New Zealand’s Chief Sustainability and Corporate Affairs Officer gave comment on the recent purchase. She expressed enthusiasm about the growing global momentum towards SAF adoption.
She highlighted the urgent need for increased SAF production and supportive policies in New Zealand. This would ensure the country’s competitiveness in the transition to lower-emission fuels.
Hannifin emphasized the importance of domestic SAF production, citing the feasibility of using woody biomass as a potential feedstock. By investing in research and development, Air New Zealand aims to harness the potential of local resources to reduce its reliance on imported fuels.
Industry-Wide Progress and Challenges
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) recently reported that SAF production reached 1.3 billion liters in 2024. This represents a substantial increase from the previous year. However, this figure falls short of initial projections due to production delays in the United States.
While the aviation industry is making significant strides in adopting SAF, challenges remain. One of the primary hurdles is the limited availability and higher cost of SAF compared to conventional jet fuel.
To overcome these challenges, governments, industry stakeholders, and consumers must work together. A collaborative promotion of the development and adoption of sustainable aviation fuels is caller for.
Summary
Air New Zealand’s partnership with Neste exemplifies the collaborative approach required to accelerate the transition to a more sustainable aviation industry. By working together, airlines, fuel suppliers, and policymakers can drive innovation, reduce emissions, and create a more sustainable future for aviation.
As the demand for sustainable travel continues to grow, Air New Zealand is committed to leading the way in the adoption of SAF. By investing in research, technology, and partnerships, the airline aims to reduce its environmental impact and inspire others to follow suit.
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