In an exciting move towards a more sustainable aviation future, Vietjet has become the first airline in Vietnam to use sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), marking a significant milestone in the country’s green transition. This development comes as part of a groundbreaking partnership with Petrolimex Aviation, a leading fuel supplier in Vietnam, further solidifying Vietjet’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and promoting environmentally friendly practices within the aviation industry.
A Historic Milestone in Sustainable Aviation
On October 17, 2024, a special event took place in Ho Chi Minh City, where Vietjet and Petrolimex Aviation officially launched their collaboration to fuel flights with SAF. The signing ceremony was attended by top officials, including Uong Viet Dung, the Director General of the Vietnam Civil Aviation Authority; Phạm Văn Thanh, Chairman of Petrolimex; and Vietjet’s leadership team, including CEO Dinh Viet Phuong and Standing Vice President To Viet Thang.
This partnership marks the first time in Vietnam that Petrolimex Aviation has blended and supplied 1,200 m³ of SAF for Vietjet flights. The introduction of SAF is not only a commercial milestone but also a strategic leap forward, setting the foundation for a sustainable fuel supply chain in Vietnam. With the production of SAF adhering to the ISCC EU standard, it meets stringent international sustainability and CO₂ emission reduction requirements, setting an example for other countries and airlines to follow.
The Role of SAF in Sustainable Aviation
Sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) is made from renewable and sustainable sources such as used cooking oil, agricultural by-products, wood biomass, and urban waste. The use of SAF has the potential to reduce carbon emissions by up to 80% compared to traditional jet fuels, making it an essential part of the aviation industry’s strategy to combat climate change.
The fuel is not only safe for commercial operations but also meets all aviation standards, making it a viable alternative for airlines looking to reduce their environmental impact. Vietjet’s adoption of SAF is a significant step toward reducing the airline’s carbon footprint and supporting Vietnam’s sustainable development goals.
Commitment to Green and Sustainable Development
The introduction of SAF into Vietjet’s operations underscores the airline’s commitment to green development and its role in driving the country’s National Green Growth Strategy. As the first airline in Vietnam to publish an ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) sustainability report, Vietjet has positioned itself as a leader in sustainable aviation.
Vietjet’s CEO, Dinh Viet Phuong, stated that the use of SAF in its flights is part of the airline’s long-term strategy to incorporate sustainable practices into its operations. With 576 modern aircraft on order, Vietjet is not just focusing on reducing emissions in the short term but is actively shaping a green, sustainable future for aviation. By using SAF, Vietjet aims to contribute significantly to global sustainability goals while simultaneously enhancing Vietnam’s standing in the international aviation community.
The Impact of SAF on Vietnam’s Aviation Industry
The partnership between Vietjet and Petrolimex Aviation has broader implications for Vietnam’s aviation industry and its commitment to environmental stewardship. Uong Viet Dung, the Director General of the Vietnam Civil Aviation Authority, highlighted that the launch of SAF is strategically important for establishing a domestic SAF supply chain. This will not only help meet international aviation fuel standards but also encourage cooperation among airlines, fuel suppliers, and regulatory agencies to boost SAF usage throughout Vietnam and beyond.
As Petrolimex continues to invest in the development of SAF technology at its Nha Be Oil Depot, it is laying the groundwork for expanding SAF production capabilities in the country. This initiative reflects Petrolimex’s commitment to supporting the green transition and advancing Vietnam’s sustainable development in the aviation sector. The company has also become the first in Vietnam to import SBC hydrocarbons, which are synthesized from biologically renewable materials for SAF production.
Vietjet’s Green Fleet and Future Goals
Vietjet’s long-term environmental strategy focuses on reducing emissions and pioneering the use of clean fuel. By adopting SAF, the airline is contributing significantly to protecting the environment and fulfilling its sustainability goals. This commitment goes hand in hand with Vietnam’s aspirations for growth in the global aviation industry, positioning the country as a leader in sustainable aviation in Southeast Asia.
Vietjet’s Standing Vice President, To Viet Thang, emphasized that today’s cooperation with Petrolimex Aviation is a pivotal moment for the airline and the country. This partnership aligns with Vietjet’s broader green agenda and positions the airline as an influential player in advancing sustainable air travel. As the global aviation industry increasingly turns to cleaner fuel options, Vietjet’s use of SAF serves as an example for other airlines and industries to follow in their efforts to mitigate climate change and build a more sustainable future.
Vietjet’s Green Transition and Vietnam’s Sustainable Future
By becoming a pioneer in the use of sustainable aviation fuel, Vietjet is helping to drive the shift toward greener and more sustainable air travel in Vietnam and the global aviation industry. The use of SAF, alongside Vietjet’s green fleet and long-term sustainability goals, is an important part of Vietnam’s environmental strategy. With a clear commitment to net-zero emissions by 2050, Vietjet’s efforts complement the country’s broader goals of sustainable growth and responsible tourism.
Through this collaboration with Petrolimex Aviation, Vietjet is contributing to the global green transition, marking a significant step in Vietnam’s aviation industry toward cleaner, more sustainable practices. As the aviation sector increasingly turns toward sustainable fuels, Vietjet’s efforts to embrace SAF underscore the airline’s vision for a more sustainable, eco-friendly future.
Sustainable Aviation in Vietnam: The Road Ahead
The successful use of SAF by Vietjet represents a critical turning point in the aviation industry’s green transition. With airlines around the world looking for ways to reduce their environmental impact, Vietnam is proving to be a leader in the sustainable aviation fuel movement. As Petrolimex continues to refine its SAF production capabilities and other airlines follow Vietjet’s lead, the future of aviation looks set to be much greener and more sustainable.
By continuing to invest in clean energy solutions like SAF, Vietjet and Vietnam are setting an example for the global aviation industry, showing that sustainable air travel is not just a possibility but a reality that can help protect the planet while ensuring the continued growth and success of the aviation industry.
