Vietnam’s first ever sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) flights departed from Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City on 17 October, operated by Vietjet.
The SAF was provided by Petrolimex Aviation, a Vietnamese aviation fuel supplier, with one flight departing to Melbourne, Australia, and the other to Seoul, South Korea.
“The first-ever refueling of SAF by Petrolimex Aviation for Vietjet’s international flights to Australia and South Korea marks a significant milestone not only for Petrolimex Aviation but also for Petrolimex Group as we implement our strategic vision for the period up to 2030, with a long-term outlook to 2045,” said Chairman of the Board of Directors of Vietnam National Petroleum Group, Pham Van Thanh. “This is a key step toward becoming a green, clean, and environmentally friendly energy corporation. Vietnam National Petroleum Group is committed to supporting and enabling Petrolimex Aviation to continue its research, development, and regular supply of SAF, contributing to the greening of the aviation industry for a sustainable future.”
The SAF, produced from renewable and sustainable feedstocks such as used cooking oil, wood biomass, and municipal waste, can reduce carbon emissions by up to 80 per cent compared to traditional jet fuel. During COP26, Vietnam committed to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, and so the newly used SAF marks an impactful milestone for the country.
“Today’s Vietjet flights using SAF are particularly meaningful, symbolising green flights and eco-friendly air travel, offering passengers a wonderful, environmentally-conscious flying experience, especially on international routes,” commented Vietjet CEO, Mr. Đinh Viet Phuong. “As a pioneering airline in the research, development and usage of SAF, Vietjet remains committed to further reducing carbon emissions in aviation and fostering sustainable growth.”
Director General of the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam, Đinh Viet Thang commented: “This is a collective source of pride for the entire industry as we contribute to environmental protection and sustainable development, affirming Vietnam’s role as a responsible member of the global aviation community.”
Photo: Vietjet
