Zambia is one of the six countries listed as having potential for the production of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) on the African continent.
SAF PRODUCTION IN AFRICA
African countries have tremendous potential for the production of SAF.
IATA’s Senior Vice President for Sustainability and Chief Economist, Marie Owens Thomsen, stated this at the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) Wings Of Change Focus Africa Conference in Johannesburg in July.
IATA urged African governments to embrace this opportunity and to develop strategies to produce SAF on the continent.
However, issues such as infrastructure development, regulatory frameworks, and funding are major obstacles.
Collaboration between governments, airlines, and international organisations is essential.
ZAMBIA KEEN TO PRODUCE SAF
Zambia is at the forefront of new SAF production initiatives.
The country is in discussions with the World Bank and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) to explore SAF production.
A SAF production project, which is already at the feasibility stage, could place Zambia as the first African nation to produce SAF at scale.
However, there is a need for collaboration across the aviation industry. Cooperation is essential to drive this.
SUPPORT FROM PROFLIGHT ZAMBIA
Vincent Banda, Director of Ground Operations, Cargo and Catering, at Proflight Zambia, says that the independently operated airline is excited to support the industry on this journey to cleaner aviation.
“The announcement of six African countries venturing into SAF production is a watershed moment for our continent’s aviation industry. It represents not just a commitment to environmental sustainability, but a strategic move towards greater self-reliance and economic growth. At Proflight, we are excited to be part of this journey and are committed to supporting the development and adoption of SAF in Zambia and across Africa.” Banda said.
COSTLY SAF PRODUCTION
Traditional SAF, produced from agricultural products and solid waste, is approximately four times more expensive than conventional jet fuel.
The cost of SAF is a significant barrier to widespread adoption.
But, by investing in SAF now, Africa is preparing for growth in a sustainable way.
NEW SAF PRODUCTION METHODS
Innovative methods of SAF production were presented at the AviaDev Conference held in Windhoek in June.
These new methods for producing SAF, including the use of water and air, were presented at the AviaDev event.
Such methods could significantly reduce production costs, making SAF a more viable option for airlines.
Privately-owned Zambian carrier Proflight Zambia has pledged commitment to furthering the adoption of SAF in Africa.
“The push towards SAF production in Africa is not just a step towards environmental sustainability; it’s a strategic move that could revolutionise our aviation sector. At AviaDev, I learned about innovative methods for producing SAF, including the use of water and air. This revelation was particularly exciting, as it presents a potential solution to one of the biggest challenges facing SAF adoption: cost.” Banda said.
BENEFITS FOR AFRICA
By producing SAF in Africa, African countries could reduce their dependence on imported aviation fuels.
Furthermore, local production creates jobs and stimulates economic growth in African countries.
Also, as SAF becomes more available and affordable, it could attract more airlines to fly to and within Africa, boosting trade and tourism.
GROWTH IN AFRICAN AIR TRAFFIC
This focus on SAF production comes at a time when Africa’s aviation sector is set for growth.
While accounting for only 2% of global air traffic, Africa has great potential for growth.
The International Air Transport Association predicts that Africa will be one of the fastest-growing aviation regions in the future.
