Viet Nam marked a major milestone in its aviation industry on October 18, with its first two flights using Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), traveling from Viet Nam to Melbourne (Australia) and Seoul (Incheon, South Korea). Vietjet Air operated these landmark flights, representing a significant step forward not only for the airline but also for the country’s aviation sector.
The Director of the Civil Aviation Authority of Viet Nam, Mr. Dinh Viet Thang, acknowledged that the successful organization of these international flights using SAF, facilitated by Vietjet Air and Petrolimex Aviation, underscores the industry's commitment to sustainable fuel usage. "This is a proud achievement for the entire sector, contributing to environmental protection and sustainable development while reinforcing Viet Nam’s reputation as a responsible member of the international aviation community," he said.
SAF is produced from renewable, sustainable materials such as used cooking oil, agricultural residues, wood biomass, and municipal waste. It has the potential to reduce carbon emissions by up to 80% compared to traditional jet fuel while meeting stringent international aviation standards for safe use in commercial operations.
The first flight to be refueled with SAF in Viet Nam, operated by Vietjet, took off this morning from Tan Son Nhat Airport, Ho Chi Minh City to Melbourne (Australia).
Recognized as the future of aviation fuel, SAF will see production costs decrease over time, making it more accessible for use in regular commercial flights beyond initial trial flights.
This achievement builds on a decade-long commitment by Vietjet to carbon reduction, environmental protection, and sustainability. Since the early days when it operated just three aircraft, Vietjet has pioneered green initiatives, transitioning from paper tickets to e-tickets and promoting online payment and check-in methods to minimize paper use. The airline also incorporates eco-friendly, recyclable materials in its onboard amenities and pursues initiatives like fuel efficiency programs to reduce CO2 emissions.
Vietjet’s environmental initiatives extend to regular tree-planting campaigns, beach clean-ups, and the development of eco-friendly, creative cities. These efforts reflect a continuous dedication to sustainability and environmental stewardship.