Kenya Airways Flies First Flight Using 50 Percent SAF

Kenya Airways (KQ) has operated its first intra-African flight using 50 percent Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) attributes under a mass balance system, the Star reported on October 23. “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,” KQ said in a statement.

KQ said the fuel is made from Hydro processed Esters and Fatty Acids feedstocks, such as used cooking oil and other waste materials, which can achieve up to 85 percent lower greenhouse gas emissions compared to conventional jet fuel when produced and used directly. The flight was organized as part of the SkyTeam Aviation Challenge 2025 under the theme Impact, which celebrates practical actions that promote sustainability in aviation.