Kenya Airways (KQ) has solidified its reputation as a sustainability leader, earning multiple accolades at the 2024 SkyTeam Aviation Challenge held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on January 14-15. The airline won two prestigious awards—Best Scaled Catering Solution and Best Approach to Scaling Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)—while receiving recognition in several other categories, underscoring its innovative approach to sustainable aviation.

Pioneering Sustainability Initiatives

In the Best Scaled Catering Solution category, Kenya Airways was commended for replacing single-use plastics with environmentally friendly alternatives onboard its flights. Economy-class meals now feature traditional African bread baskets and aluminum containers, a shift projected to eliminate 24 tonnes of plastic waste annually.

In the Best Approach to Scaling SAF category, KQ was celebrated for its partnership with a local SAF producer to establish Kenya’s first production plant. This initiative is set to deliver affordable sustainable fuel to the region, create jobs for Kwale County residents, and increase Kenya’s tree cover by cultivating energy seed plants on degraded lands.

Other Recognitions

Kenya Airways also received recognition in:

• Best Team Collaboration: For its Sustainability Champions program fostering cross-departmental efforts

Kenya Airways Wins Big at the 2024 SkyTeam Aviation Challenge with Sustainability Innovations

Kenya Airways (KQ) has emerged as a trailblazer in sustainable aviation, clinching multiple awards at the 2024 SkyTeam Aviation Challenge held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on January 14-15. The airline secured top honors in the Best Scaled Catering Solution and Best Approach to Scaling Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) categories while receiving recognition in several other areas for its innovative and impactful sustainability initiatives.

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Leading with Scaled Solutions

Kenya Airways’ win in the Best Scaled Catering Solution category highlights its commitment to reducing single-use plastics onboard. By introducing traditional African bread baskets and aluminum containers for economy-class meals, the airline is set to eliminate 24 tonnes of plastic waste annually, showcasing its dedication to eco-friendly practices.

In the Best Approach to Scaling SAF category, KQ stood out for its pioneering partnership with a local sustainable aviation fuel producer to establish Kenya’s first SAF production plant. This groundbreaking initiative will provide affordable SAF to Kenya and the region, create jobs in Kwale County, and enhance the nation’s tree cover by cultivating energy seed plants on degraded lands, aligning with global climate goals.

Recognition Across Multiple Categories

Kenya Airways also earned accolades in:

• Best Team Collaboration: For its Sustainability Champions program, fostering cross-departmental teamwork to drive green initiatives.
• Best Climate Literacy: For its multi-level sustainability training programs that enhance awareness and action across the organization.
• Special mentions in Scaling SAF, Best Catering Solution, and Airline Participation, reflecting the airline’s holistic approach to sustainability.

CEO’s Remarks

Commenting on the wins, Kenya Airways CEO Allan Kilavuka said, “The recognition at the 2024 Aviation Challenge underscores our unwavering commitment to sustainability and innovation. By embracing sustainable aviation fuel, reducing single-use plastics, and fostering collaboration across teams, we are driving meaningful change for the aviation industry and our planet.”

Transformative Efforts in Aviation

Kenya Airways’ participation in the SkyTeam Aviation Challenge included successfully operating four long-haul flights—from Nairobi to New York, Amsterdam, Paris, and London—under sustainability-focused parameters. These flights featured sustainable in-flight catering, geo-optimized ground operations, e-mobility solutions for passenger transport, a “travel light” policy encouraging reduced baggage weight, and advanced waste management initiatives.

The airline’s achievements form part of a broader strategy to position Kenya Airways as a global leader in sustainable aviation. By aligning its operations with environmental stewardship and innovation, Kenya Airways is setting industry benchmarks and contributing to global efforts to combat climate change.