SIA joins sustainable aviation fuel users group

Singapore Airlines has taken another step towards greener skies by joining the Sustainable Aviation Fuel Users Group (SAFUG).

Established in 2008, SAFUG is a working group that aims to accelerate the development and commercialisation of lower-carbon renewable aviation fuels, derived from environmentally and socially sustainable sources.

“We are pleased to be the newest member of SAFUG. This is in line with our longstanding commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while improving the efficiency of our operations,” Singapore Airlines’ Executive Vice-President Human Resources and Operations Ng Chin Hwee said.

“It will take time to research and develop alternative fuels that meet the stringent safety requirements of civil aviation and at the same time are commercially viable. But through SAFUG, which brings together both airlines and aircraft manufacturers, we hope to be one step closer.”

Singapore Airlines maintains a young and modern fleet of fuel-efficient aircraft.

The average age of its passenger fleet, as of 1 September 2011, is six years and four months. The Airline is also an early adopter of technology, having been the first airline to operate the fuel-efficient Airbus A380, for example, and having placed orders for the latest-generation Airbus A350 and Boeing 787 aircraft.

Some of Singapore Airlines’ other environmentally friendly initiatives include:

- Maintenance programmes for both airframes and engines that ensure operational efficiency and enhanced fuel efficiency;

- Route planning procedures that ensure that Singapore Airlines’ planes fly the most fuel-efficient routes where possible;

- Regular green flights across Asia and the Pacific under the Asia and Pacific Initiative to Reduce Emissions (ASPIRE) programme;

- Improvements in flight operation procedures that minimise fuel use without compromising safety, for example through tailored arrivals and continuous descent operations; and

- Use of weight-saving initiatives such as lightweight crockery, galley service equipment, cargo containers and other aircraft modifications.