AirAsia India successfully completed the country’s first commercial passenger flight using indigenous Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) blend. The flight, i5-767 from Pune to New Delhi, utilised a blend of SAF supplied by Indian Oil Corporation Ltd. (IOCL) in partnership with Praj Industries Ltd. Hardeep Singh Puri, Union Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas, received the flight at the airport, emphasising the importance of indigenous solutions in mitigating aviation’s environmental impact.
Speaking on the occasion, Puri highlighted the significance of the flight and its role in India’s journey towards net zero emissions by 2070. He commended the collaborative efforts of IndianOil, AirAsia India, and Praj Industries, emphasising the vision of an ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ (self-reliant India) and the potential for widespread adoption of SAF in the country.
Dr. Pramod Chaudhari, Founder Chairman, Praj Industries, expressed pride in showcasing India’s capability to fly using locally produced SAF. He emphasised the role of the farming community in India’s energy independence and green growth, and the ongoing partnership with IOCL.
Aloke Singh, Managing Director, AirAsia India and Air India Express, highlighted the commitment of the Tata Group and Air India subsidiary to innovation and collaboration for environmental mitigation. He described the flight as a significant milestone in their efforts towards a more sustainable future for Indian aviation.
Vaidya, Chairman, IndianOil, underlined the company’s commitment to leading the change in the oil and gas sector and ushering in a greener future. He expressed confidence in SAF becoming the norm in the aviation industry, aligning with the vision of achieving net zero emissions by 2046.