Cathay backs new policy whitepaper on sustainable aviation fuel strategy

Grace Cheung, Cathay Group General Manager Sustainability, stated: “Making Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) accessible and affordable at Hong Kong International Airport is pivotal to maintain and raise its status as a leading international aviation hub. The Policy Whitepaper emphasises the necessity of a long-term policy framework and provides practical recommendations addressing supply, demand, infrastructure, and commercial considerations."

Cheung added that Cathay looks forward to collaborating with industry players to support further development of supportive SAF policies by the Hong Kong SAR Government.

In its 2024 Policy Address, the government highlighted its commitment to SAF by announcing plans for setting usage targets by 2025. Cathay welcomes these initiatives and intends to contribute based on its experience with international best practices while considering local circumstances.

SAF is considered crucial for reducing carbon emissions in airline operations, potentially cutting emissions by up to 80% compared to conventional jet fuel depending on technology and feedstock used.

Cathay Pacific was among the first airlines globally committed to using 10% SAF in total fuel consumption by 2030. The airline has conducted successful SAF uplifts at various airports worldwide since then. In 2022, it launched a Corporate SAF Programme aimed at helping corporate partners reduce their indirect emissions from air travel and freight services.

As co-initiator of HKSAFC alongside BEC and other partners from across the value chain established early this year—Cathay remains dedicated towards accelerating widespread adoption through sharing experiences globally advocating participation within corporations supporting such endeavors moving forward into future developments regarding sustainable fuels overall