Good news for Nigerian Airlines
Indonesia’s flagship airline, Garuda, recently accomplished a remarkable feat by executing its maiden commercial flight utilizing palm oil-infused aviation fuel.
This significant development has sparked hope for Nigerian carriers, including Air Peace and Max Air, currently grappling with the exorbitant costs of conventional aviation fuel. As per latest reports, a liter of aviation fuel is currently being sold at an exorbitant rate of N1, 000. Palm oil presents a promising and potentially cost-effective alternative.
Garuda Indonesia’s Groundbreaking Achievement
Garuda Indonesia, the distinguished flag carrier of the Southeast Asian nation, proudly announced the successful operation of a Boeing 737-800NG aircraft, powered by a blend of aviation fuel and palm oil. Irfan Setiaputra, the President Director of Garuda Indonesia, unveiled this groundbreaking achievement during the aircraft’s reception at the renowned Soekarno-Hatta International Airport.
Smooth Voyage amidst Eco-friendly Initiatives
The commendable initiative gained further traction as the aircraft soared from the Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Banten province, embarking on a journey spanning approximately 550 kilometers to the Adi Soemarmo International Airport in Central Java. On a crisp Friday morning, with the date marking October 27, 2023, over 100 passengers were aboard the flight, bearing witness to this historic event.
Palm Oil’s Potential as Aviation Fuel
In a bid to reduce fuel imports and embrace sustainable practices, Indonesia, renowned as the world’s largest palm oil producer, has intensified efforts to promote the usage of biofuels, particularly within the aviation sector. Notably, the palm-oil blended jet fuel, manufactured by PT Pertamina, Indonesia’s state energy firm at its Cilacap refinery, utilizes cutting-edge hydroprocessed esters and fatty acid (HEFA) technology. Derived from refined bleached deodorized palm kernel oil, this eco-friendly alternative emits considerably fewer greenhouse gases compared to conventional fossil fuels.
Collaboration for Commercial Viability
Setiaputra emphasized the importance of collaborating with Pertamina, the Energy Ministry, and other stakeholders to ensure the commercial viability of this alternative fuel. Meanwhile, Nigerian airline operators have emphasized the urgency for the country to explore alternative aviation fuel sources, considering the escalating costs of conventional jet fuel imports.
Striving Towards Sustainable Aviation Practices
In a recent meeting held in Abuja on October 18, 2023, airline operators called upon the Nigerian government to prioritize the development and implementation of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and Low Carbon Available Fuel. These initiatives aim to promote transparency and encourage the adoption of sustainable fuel sources within Nigeria’s aviation industry.
The successful launch of the commercial flight using palm oil-blended jet fuel serves as a beacon of hope for the aviation industry, fostering a more sustainable and eco-friendly future for airlines worldwide.
