Starting 2025, Vietnam Airlines will incorporate sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) on all flights departing from Europe, becoming the first Vietnamese carrier to implement this initiative. The SAF usage will begin at a minimum of 2% and is set to progressively increase to 6% by 2030, 20% by 2035, and 70% by 2050.
For flights departing from the UK, the airline will adopt a similar approach, introducing SAF at a minimum rate of 2% in 2025, with plans to escalate usage to 10% by 2030 and 22% by 2040.
A Vietnam Airlines representative emphasized that this move reinforces the airline’s efforts in sustainable aviation and aligns with Vietnam’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. The initiative also aims to offer passengers a high-quality, eco-friendly travel experience while promoting a greener future for the aviation industry.
Vietnam Airlines previously marked a milestone in sustainable aviation by operating its first SAF-powered commercial flight from Singapore to Hanoi in 2024. However, the high cost of SAF, which is two to six times more expensive than conventional fossil fuels, poses a financial challenge, with the airline expecting to incur an additional USD 4.8 million annually for European operations.
Beyond SAF adoption, the airline has implemented various carbon reduction measures, including deploying new-generation aircraft, optimizing flight routes, and closely monitoring fuel consumption. These efforts resulted in a reduction of nearly 70,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide in 2024.
Vietnam Airlines aims to expand SAF usage through collaborations with supply chain partners while integrating broader sustainability initiatives to drive long-term environmental progress in aviation.
(Source: Vietnam Plus)
