Air France-KLM has secured a significant supply of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) for the next decade, marking a key step in its sustainability efforts.
In partnership with TotalEnergies, this agreement aims to cut carbon emissions and foster innovation in aviation fuel.
Air France-KLM has made a significant stride in environmental responsibility by securing a supply agreement for up to 1.5 million tons of more sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). This contract, which spans 10 years, is heralded as one of the airline group’s largest SAF procurement deals to date. The partnership with TotalEnergies underscores a commitment to reducing carbon emissions in aviation, a sector known for its substantial environmental footprint.
Remarkably, Air France-KLM positioned itself as the leading user of sustainable aviation fuel worldwide in the past two years, constituting 16% and 17% of global SAF production in 2022 and the preceding year, respectively. This achievement not only highlights the airline’s proactive environmental strategies but also its leadership in the aviation industry’s transition towards greener fuel alternatives.
The commitment to reducing CO2 emissions is embodied in Air France-KLM’s ambitious target to cut emissions by 30% per passenger/km by 2030, compared to 2019 levels. This goal far surpasses existing regulatory obligations and is being pursued through fleet modernisation, operational efficiency measures, and the integration of at least 10% SAF in its operations. Such initiatives are essential as the airline seeks to pave the way for a more sustainable future.
According to Benjamin Smith, the Air France-KLM CEO, securing the necessary volumes of SAF to decarbonise aviation activities presents a significant challenge. He views the agreement with TotalEnergies as a crucial move towards achieving sustainability targets and supporting the growth of SAF production in Europe. This agreement is seen as a testament to the airline’s long-standing commitment to advancing SAF industry development.
The airline’s latest SAF procurement strategy not only aligns with global climate action goals but also strengthens Europe’s energy independence and sovereignty. The development of a robust SAF industry is pivotal, providing a sustainable alternative to conventional fuels while promoting regional autonomy in energy resources. This strategic alignment between environmental objectives and economic interests illustrates a promising pathway for the aviation industry’s sustainable evolution.
Air France-KLM’s decade-long agreement for SAF supply is a monumental step in its voyage towards sustainability. By aligning with TotalEnergies, the airline not only fortifies its environmental ambitions but also sets a precedent for others in the sector. This agreement, focusing on zero competition with food resources and adhering to circular economy principles, exemplifies a commitment to ethical and effective sustainability practices.
With this strategic partnership, Air France-KLM leads the charge in greener aviation solutions.
The airline’s ambitious goals set a high standard in the pursuit of reduced carbon footprints across the aviation industry.
