Emirates has marked a significant milestone in aviation sustainability with the launch of its flights using sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) provided by Shell Aviation. On October 24, flight EK 412 from Dubai International Airport (DXB) to Sydney became one of the pioneering flights to utilize SAF, signifying a major step in the airline’s eco-friendly initiatives.
The Move Towards SAF
The introduction of SAF into Emirates’ operations is a groundbreaking development. Shell Aviation has delivered 315,000 gallons of SAF to Emirates, allowing the airline to conduct several flights from its Dubai hub with this eco-conscious fuel. The SAF blend, consisting of 40% neat SAF and 60% conventional Jet A-1 fuel, matches the chemical properties of regular jet fuel, ensuring a smooth integration into the current airport fuel systems and aircraft engines without the need for any modifications.
SAF’s potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80 percent over its lifecycle, compared to conventional jet fuel, is a significant environmental advantage. Emirates is closely monitoring the delivery, usage, and environmental benefits of SAF through Shell Aviation’s Avelia, a blockchain-powered solution for tracking sustainable fuel.
Collaboration for a Greener Future
Tim Clark, President of Emirates, has emphasized the airline’s proactive approach to sustainable flying. He pointed out that utilizing SAF from the Dubai hub is a crucial move to cut down emissions and assist customers in reducing their carbon footprint. Clark acknowledges the challenges ahead and hopes that the partnership with Shell Aviation will encourage more SAF production and availability.
Jan Toschka, President of Shell Aviation, celebrates the collaboration with Emirates, highlighting the significance of this first SAF supply in Dubai as a catalyst for further SAF adoption in the UAE and the broader region.
Strengthening Sustainable Travel and Technology
Emirates and Shell have previously signed a Memorandum of Understanding to explore sustainable travel and technology-driven experiences. They aim to reduce travel emissions and enhance the travel experience with personalized products and new technologies, including New Distribution Capabilities (NDC), which Shell is poised to adopt early through this partnership.
The airline has established a US$ 200 million fund for research and development projects aimed at reducing the reliance on fossil fuels in aviation. Over the next three years, Emirates plans to forge partnerships to advance fuel and energy technologies.
Pioneering SAF Use and Advocacy
The airline has been a proponent of SAF since its first use in 2017 on a flight from Chicago. It has since expanded SAF use to flights from Stockholm, Paris, Lyon, and Oslo. The airline also conducted the region’s first 100% SAF-powered demonstration flight earlier this year and is actively involved in research to understand SAF’s use in higher blends and support its standardization and future certification.
Emirates actively participates in industry and UAE government working groups to promote the scaling of SAF production and supply. These efforts are part of a broader commitment to sustainability, which includes reducing emissions, responsible consumption, and preserving wildlife and habitats.
First love never dies. I fell in love with airplanes and aviation when I was a kid. My dream was to become a pilot, but destiny led me to another path: to be an aviation digital media content creator and a small business owner. My passion for aviation inspires me to bring you quality content through my website and social accounts. Aviation is indeed in my blood and blog!
