New Zealand’s largest airline, Air New Zealand, has advanced its commitment to sustainability with a landmark agreement to procure more than 30 million liters of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) from Neste.

This deal marks the airline’s largest SAF purchase to date, with the fuel set to be sourced from Los Angeles and San Francisco through February 2026.

Air New Zealand aims to cut carbon emissions by up to 80% by incorporating sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), compared to conventional fossil jet fuel. The airline has set an ambitious goal of using 10% SAF by 2030.

For the 2025 fiscal year, this SAF procurement will make up 1.6% of the airline’s total fuel supply—a fourfold increase from the previous year. This notable progress underscores Air New Zealand’s commitment to minimising its environmental footprint and driving sustainability within the aviation industry.

Kiri Hannifin, Air New Zealand’s Chief Sustainability and Corporate Affairs Officer, shared her excitement about the global progress in adopting sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).

She stressed the critical need for expanding SAF production and implementing supportive policies in New Zealand to remain competitive in the shift to low-emission fuels.

Hannifin also highlighted the potential of domestic SAF production, particularly utilizing woody biomass as a feedstock. She noted that Air New Zealand is focused on research and development to tap into local resources, reducing dependence on imported fuels and advancing the country’s sustainable aviation goals.