TAIPEI (TVBS News) — China Airlines (中華航空公司) announced on Wednesday (Nov. 5) it will incorporate Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) in flights from Los Angeles to Taipei starting this month. This initiative, which aims to reduce carbon emissions by 12,200 tons, marks a significant step in the airline's sustainability efforts.
China Airlines has partnered with Neste, the world's largest SAF producer, to expand its SAF procurement. Los Angeles, a crucial hub for China Airlines in North America, will see approximately 160 flights using SAF at a 35% blend ratio. The airline has chosen LA as its initial North American hub for SAF due to Neste's robust supply chain and operational capabilities in the area.
The Ministry of Transportation launched a pilot program for SAF in April, allowing China Airlines, EVA Air (長榮航空), and STARLUX Airlines (星宇航空) to add SAF to departing flights from Taoyuan and Kaohsiung airports. China Airlines' SAF procurement for 2025 already accounts for 0.5% of its total fuel planning.
China Airlines emphasized a flexible adjustment mechanism for SAF blending ratios, aligning with regional regulations and strategic company objectives. The airline has also been implementing SAF in major regions across Europe, the Americas, and Asia. Neste, headquartered in Finland, leads globally in SAF and renewable diesel production, with facilities in Finland, Rotterdam, and Singapore. The company plans to increase its annual production capacity from 1.5 million tons to 2.2 million tons by 2027.