Air New Zealand's first supply of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) has arrived in Wellington, marking a major step towards the airline's objective of net zero carbon emissions by 2050.

This 5,00,000-litre delivery, made from recycled cooking oil, represents a critical step in reducing the airline's reliance on fossil fuels.

Environmental Benefits and Economic Necessity

Kiri Hannifin, Chief Sustainability and Corporate Affairs Officer at Air New Zealand, says, "As the main driver of climate change, the global economy, including New Zealand, must rapidly transition away from our high reliance on fossil fuels. For a small island nation in the South Pacific, alternatives are even more important because we are heavily reliant on flying to connect with each other in our own country, as well as when we travel abroad. Aviation also plays a very important role supporting New Zealand's trade and tourism sectors.

"To keep doing all these activities which enrich our country's economy we must act as quickly as we can to transition to a lower-carbon future. At the moment, SAF is the key way aviation will move towards this.

"Airlines are signing supply arrangements for SAF 10 years into the future and beyond, so we need to be part of the picture from the start otherwise New Zealand may fall behind. While the volumes of SAF we are buying are very small compared to the amount of fossil jet fuel we use, they give an important signal to alternative fuel producers that we are open for business.

"We've seen increased international momentum around SAF in the past few months, with airlines, governments, airports, and fuel companies all getting on board with alternative fuels at pace.

"From 2026, our aircraft will be required to uplift SAF when we fly home from Singapore and Vancouver. Japan has announced a SAF requirement from 2030, and other countries are also making signals that SAF will be mandated for all airlines for outbound flights including in Australia, Indonesia, Hong Kong and China.

"These moves across different jurisdictions are being put in place to stimulate and fast track the production of alternative fuels and encourage oil and gas companies to speed up their transition away from fossil fuels."

Global Momentum and Upcoming Regulations

The global aviation industry is rapidly embracing SAF. Regulations requiring its use are being implemented in Singapore, Vancouver, Japan, and other countries. These measures aim to stimulate SAF production and encourage oil and gas companies to transition away from fossil fuels.

New Zealand's Role in the Transition

Climate Change Minister Simon Watts says, "Transport energy accounts for 18 per cent of New Zealand's total emissions, so it is encouraging to see the industry take steps towards sustainable practices as New Zealand transitions to a low emissions future."

While current production cannot meet total aviation fuel needs, projections suggest a tripling of SAF output in 2024. Air New Zealand is further exploring options for local SAF production through feasibility studies.

Sustainable Aviation Fuel: A Greener Path Forward

This SAF shipment highlights Air New Zealand's commitment to environmental sustainability. SAF is a direct replacement for traditional jet fuel, requiring minimal modifications to existing infrastructure. Derived from renewable sources like used cooking oil, it offers a cleaner alternative for the future of air travel.

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Source: Air New Zealand