SAA

Boeing is partnering with South African Airways (SAA) to develop and implement Africa’s first sustainable aviation biofuel supply chain in the southern part of the continent.

The companies have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) as part of their efforts to support environmental sustainability for the airline’s operations and also to help reduce industry emissions.

In addition, the agreement will advance social and economic development of South Africa.

Biofuel, derived from organic sources, has proved to be better than petroleum-based bio-fuel in various flight tests.

When produced using sustainable methods, biofuel contributes far less to global carbon emissions compared with traditional fuels.

Boeing Commercial Airplanes environmental strategy and integration managing director Julie Felgar said sustainable aviation biofuel will play a central role in reducing commercial aviation’s carbon emissions over the long-term.

"Boeing and South African Airways are committed to investigating feedstocks and pathways that comply with strict sustainability guidelines and can have a positive impact on South Africa’s development."

"Boeing and South African Airways are committed to investigating feedstocks and pathways that comply with strict sustainability guidelines and can have a positive impact on South Africa’s development," Felgar said.

SAA Group Environmental Affairs head Ian Cruickshank added: "By working with Boeing’s sustainable aviation biofuel team, which has a history of successful partnerships to move lower-carbon biofuels closer to commercialisation, we will apply the best global technology to meet the unique conditions of Southern Africa, diversify our energy sources and create new opportunities for the people of South Africa."

Boeing has partnered with several airlines, research institutions, governments and other stakeholders to develop plans for biofuel supply chains in various countries and regions, and its new collaboration with SAA is the first among such projects in Africa.

Globally, more than 1,500 passenger flights have used biofuel since the fuel was approved.

Image: The latest agreement between Boeing and South African Airways will help reduce industry emissions. Photo: courtesy of Adrian Pingstone.

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