KQ Makes African Aviation History with Landmark Low-Carbon Flight to Cape Town
Kenya Airways (KQ) has marked a significant milestone for African aviation by operating the continent’s first verified low-carbon flight, KQ784, from Nairobi to Cape Town, powered by Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).
The showcase flight, which operated on Tuesday, demonstrated a major leap forward in the airline’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
The flight was powered by 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) attributes, a first-of-its-kind demonstration in Africa. This was achieved using a “mass balance system” certified under the global Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA) and the IATA Book & Claim system.
This system allows the airline and its corporate partners to invest in SAF and claim the environmental benefits, even if the fuel itself is not physically present in a specific aircraft’s tanks. The SAF used is derived from waste-based feedstocks, such as used cooking oil, which can deliver up to 85% lower greenhouse gas emissions over its lifecycle compared to conventional jet fuel.
Hellen Mwariri, Chief Strategy and Innovation Officer at Kenya Airways, highlighted the collaborative nature of the achievement. “Kenya Airways has operated Flight KQ784 from Nairobi to Cape Town with 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) attributes… All funded by our corporate customers, setting an example for how we can partner with you for climate action,” she stated.
This achievement is part of a broader sustainability initiative by the airline, which is running a series of SAF-powered showcase flights in October.
The commitment to sustainability on the Nairobi-Cape Town flight extended far beyond the fuel tank. Every detail of the passenger experience was designed to reduce waste and promote responsible travel. Onboard, the airline reduced its reliance on single-use plastics by using recyclable and reusable cutlery and catering items, part of a wider airline initiative that has already won awards for eliminating tonnes of plastic waste. The cabin also featured innovative upcycled products, such as blanket bags created by the “KQ Upcycling Studio” which repurposes old airline materials. Furthermore, passengers were served locally sourced Kenyan coffee, tea, and other menu items, reducing the carbon footprint of the in-flight service and supporting local suppliers.
“Every detail onboard reflected our commitment to reducing waste and promoting more responsible travel,” the airline said in a statement. “Because every flight is an opportunity to make a difference.”
This historic flight positions Kenya Airways as a leader in sustainable aviation on the continent and provides a clear blueprint for how airlines, in partnership with corporate clients, can accelerate the decarbonization of air travel through innovative systems like IATA’s Book & Claim.
Go to ECONEWS.co.ke for more sustainability news from the African continent.
Mark your calendars! The GreenShift Sustainability Forum is back in Nairobi this November. Join innovators, policymakers & sustainability leaders for a breakfast forum as we explore sustainable solutions shaping the continent’s future. Limited slots – Register now – here. Email info@techtrendsmedia.co.ke for partnership requests.
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