In a significant move for sustainable aviation, Cathay Pacific has highlighted the crucial role of government in driving Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) adoption across Hong Kong’s aviation industry. Cathay’s general manager of sustainability, Grace Cheung, recently underscored the need for regulatory involvement to ensure a “level playing field” and accelerate SAF uptake across the region. As a frontrunner in Hong Kong’s SAF initiatives, Cathay aims to derive 10% of its fuel consumption from SAF by 2030—a commendable goal, especially given the limited SAF supply and its higher costs compared to conventional jet fuel.
The airline has actively engaged with corporate customers, gaining support for the additional costs associated with SAF, a move that saw significant contributions from companies like DB Schenker and Airport Authority Hong Kong. This collaborative approach has already contributed to over 8,000 tonnes of reduced carbon emissions this year, proving the impact of unified action toward climate objectives.
Why Government Support Matters for SAF
While Cathay Pacific has taken bold strides by investing in SAF suppliers and creating customer partnerships, Cheung emphasized that a collective regulatory framework is essential for scaling SAF use. She pointed to other regions, such as the European Union and the United Kingdom, where SAF mandates have accelerated the sector’s progress. With a high dependency on fossil-based jet fuel, policies that mandate SAF adoption in Hong Kong could be transformative.
Hong Kong’s Chief Executive, John Lee Ka-chiu, recently committed to establishing an SAF supply chain and set targets for the region’s SAF usage by next year. This governmental push could position Hong Kong as a leading sustainable aviation hub in Asia.
The Role of VURDHAAN in Driving Aviation Sustainability
As advocates of sustainability in the aviation sector, VURDHAAN actively collaborates with airlines, airports, and regulatory bodies to facilitate impactful climate strategies. Our comprehensive three-step approach—Support, Educate, Implement—empowers stakeholders to meet and exceed sustainability benchmarks through structured guidance and compliance with global standards such as CORSIA and EU ETS. VURDHAAN’s expertise in SAF, carbon offsetting, and aviation emissions reduction aligns with Cathay’s sustainability vision, and we are committed to fostering the growth of sustainable aviation in Hong Kong.
Challenges and Opportunities in SAF Adoption
The path to decarbonizing aviation is complex, with SAF being three to five times more expensive than conventional jet fuel due to production challenges and supply limitations. Additionally, as demonstrated by the recent bankruptcy filing of Fulcrum BioEnergy, the SAF industry faces risks, from funding to technological hurdles. Yet, despite the obstacles, industry leaders are optimistic. Mark Harper of Swire Pacific believes that SAF technology is progressing rapidly, mirroring an S-curve of growth, with production capacity doubling annually in recent years.
For Hong Kong, an increased SAF supply will depend on a robust local production infrastructure, strategic policy support, and active collaboration with global SAF producers. With regional discussions ongoing in South Korea, Japan, and China, the potential for a unified Asia-wide approach to SAF policy could further benefit Hong Kong’s efforts and help local carriers remain competitive on a global scale.
Building a Sustainable Future Together
Cathay Pacific’s call for greater government involvement in SAF adoption marks a significant step toward a more sustainable aviation future. With Hong Kong’s growing commitment to climate goals and initiatives led by industry pioneers, the path to achieving net-zero emissions in aviation is becoming clearer.
At VURDHAAN, we remain dedicated to supporting the aviation industry in advancing its sustainability journey. Through our partnership-driven approach, we aim to help Hong Kong’s aviation sector thrive under new environmental standards, making substantial progress in emissions reduction and fostering a legacy of responsible air travel.
Are you ready to take the next step toward sustainable aviation? Reach out to VURDHAAN today to explore how our expertise can empower your organization in achieving meaningful sustainability milestones.