Red Sea Global introduces Sustainable Aviation Fuel to reduce aviation emissions in Saudi Arabia

Credit: Red Sea Global

Red Sea Global (RSG), the developer behind regenerative tourism destinations The Red Sea and AMAALA, has announced a deal to introduce Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) to the Kingdom for the first time. SAF and Lower-Carbon Aviation Fuel (LCAF) are designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in aviation. SAF can be derived from clean hydrogen and captured CO2 or renewable/waste-based sources. RSG and daa International, operator of The Red Sea International Airport (RSI), partnered with APSCO, the airport’s fuel supplier, to offer airlines refuelling options using SAF.

RSI’s SAF supply is blended with 35% SAF and 65% standard Jet A1 fuel, reducing carbon emissions by up to 35% per flight. This initiative is part of RSG’s commitment to sustainability. “By bringing SAF to the Kingdom, we are dramatically reducing our guests’ carbon footprint from the moment they arrive and even after they leave,” said John Pagano, Group CEO of Red Sea Global. Fly Red Sea, RSG’s subsidiary air operator, will exclusively use SAF and LCAF to ensure more sustainable aviation practices.

RSG is also focused on other sustainability solutions, including generating power entirely from solar energy. More than 400MWp of solar panels have been deployed in The Red Sea, and emissions are expected to be reduced by up to 600,000 CO2eq annually. Additionally, RSG aims to increase mangrove density by 50 million by 2030 through restoration efforts. Michael White, RSI’s Chief Commercial Officer, emphasised that this initiative aligns with their mission to protect the Red Sea’s unique ecosystem.

Since 2023, The Red Sea has welcomed guests, with five hotels open and flights regularly operating. By 2030, the destination will feature 50 resorts, 8,000 hotel rooms, and 1,000 residential properties.

SIGN ME UP