Kenya Airways has operated its first intra-African flight using 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) attributes under a mass balance system.
The flight was operated in line with international standards by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA).
This milestone marks a step in reducing the carbon footprint of air travel in Africa.
The SAF attributes are verified through global certification schemes that ensure traceability and
transparency.
Kenya Airways’ Africa’s First intra-African flight
The fuel is made from Hydroprocessed Esters and Fatty Acids (HEFA) feedstocks, such as used cooking oil and other waste materials, which can achieve up to 85% lower greenhouse gas emissions compared to conventional jet fuel when produced and used directly.
By applying these verified SAF attributes, the airline has achieved a 50% SAF-equivalent operation
on the Nairobi–Cape Town route. This represents a meaningful step in exploring realistic and
measurable ways to reduce emissions across its network.
The flight was organised as part of the SkyTeam Aviation Challenge 2025 (TAC) under the theme “Impact”, which celebrates practical actions that promote sustainability in aviation.
Onboard, Kenya Airways introduced several initiatives under four focus areas:
- In-flight Products: Upcycled blanket bags and headset covers, and reusable cutlery to
reduce waste. - Catering: Locally sourced Kenyan coffee and tea, canned beverages instead of plastic
bottles, and reusable hot drink cups. - Waste Management: Recycling of onboard waste and reusing service items.
- People: Cabin crew involvement in creating awareness among passengers about
responsible practices.
“This flight shows what can be achieved through collaboration and innovation. It’s a step toward practical solutions that reduce our impact while keeping operations efficient,” said Hellen Mwariri, Chief Strategy & Innovation Officer.
Kenya Airways continues to work with government agencies, local innovators, and international partners, including IATA, SkyTeam, and AFRAA, to help build local SAF production capacity in Kenya by 2026.
How many destinations does Kenya Airways fly to?
Kenya Airways (KQ), The Pride of Africa, is a leading African carrier on a mission to propel Africa’s
prosperity by connecting its people, cultures, and markets.
It flies to 42 destinations worldwide, 37 of which are in Africa, connecting over 5 million passengers and over 70,000 Tons of cargo annually through our Hub at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
As the sole African carrier in the SkyTeam Alliance, KQ opens up a world of possibilities for its customers, connecting them to over 1,060 destinations in 173 countries. It takes pride in offering a delightful flying experience with a caring African touch.
