Source Credit: Arab News
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia is set to use sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) for the first time following an agreement between Red Sea Global, daa International, and Arabian Petroleum Supply Co in Riyadh. The deal will supply Red Sea International Airport with a 35% SAF blend, reducing aircraft emissions by up to 35%.
This initiative supports Red Sea Global’s commitment to powering all operations with renewable energy. The company has already installed solar panels capable of producing 400 MW, potentially offsetting 600,000 tonnes of CO₂ annually.
John Pagano, Group CEO of Red Sea Global, emphasized the environmental benefits, stating that introducing SAF will help lower guests’ carbon footprints and encourage the aviation sector to adopt sustainable practices.
SAF, a lower-carbon alternative to jet fuel, is made from renewable sources, waste-derived materials, or synthesized from clean hydrogen and CO₂. However, high production costs and limited availability remain challenges to widespread adoption.
Michael White, Chief Commercial Officer at RSI, highlighted that this initiative aligns with efforts to protect the Red Sea’s ecosystem. Red Sea Global’s airline, Fly Red Sea, will also use SAF and lower-carbon fuels for its seaplane fleet.
Additionally, Red Sea Global aims to plant and restore 50 million mangroves by 2030 to enhance carbon sequestration and biodiversity.
The Red Sea region welcomed its first guests in 2023 and now has five operational hotels. Regular domestic flights have been running since September 2023, with international flights to Dubai starting in April. By 2030, the Red Sea will feature 50 resorts, 8,000 hotel rooms, residential properties, and various leisure attractions.
