Since the launch of the Corporate Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Programme in 2022, the Cathay Group has worked with a broad range of partners to build a shared future for the aviation industry. In 2024 alone, corporate and Cathay Cargo partners helped abate more than 19,000 tonnes of carbon emissions through the productio`cvxfkszdfk’n and use of SAF.
Now the Group is delighted to mark a new strategic partnership with DHL Express, under which the global logistics leader will commit to purchasing 2,400 tonnes of SAF. The fuel is used by the Cathay Group’s fully owned subsidiary Air Hong Kong, which operates overnight express parcels flights for its principal customer, DHL Express. The blended SAF is uploaded to flights departing from Seoul Incheon International Airport, Tokyo Narita International Airport and Singapore Changi Airport.
The landmark deal is expected to reduce lifecycle emissions by approximately 7,190 tonnes, estimated to be equivalent to the emissions of more than 100 of Air Hong Kong’s Airbus A330F flights between Hong Kong and Singapore.
“SAF remains a core pillar of our strategy to address our carbon emissions, and collaboration is essential to scaling its use across our network. We are excited to be working with like-minded partners like DHL Express to make SAF more accessible and scalable, particularly in Asia,” says Cathay Director Cargo Tom Owen.
Peter Bardens, DHL Express Senior Vice President for Network Operations & Aviation – Asia Pacific, echoed this sentiment, adding: “DHL Express is at the forefront of SAF adoption, and we look forward to seeing more partners and customers join us on this journey to build a more robust SAF ecosystem in Asia.”
The agreement marks the first time SAF will be used on flights operated by Air Hong Kong. Its newly revamped fleet now consists entirely of A330Fs, offering enhanced cargo capacity, improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions.