Cathay and Singapore Airlines (SIA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on a variety of sustainability initiatives. These efforts are focused on promoting the development and use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) in the Asia-Pacific region, a key factor in decarbonizing the aviation sector, and sharing best practices to enhance sustainability performance.
The MoU was signed by Cathay Group Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mr. Ronald Lam and Singapore Airlines CEO Mr. Goh Choon Phong in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, during the 80th International Air Transport Association (IATA) Annual General Meeting and World Air Transport Summit.
The agreement, emphasizing two main areas, highlights both airlines' commitment to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050 and their aspiration to drive sustainability advancements in the airline industry.
Firstly, Cathay and SIA will advocate for increased use of SAF in the Asia-Pacific region. This will involve raising public awareness about SAF's critical role in decarbonizing aviation, supporting policies that promote SAF usage, and establishing a global framework for accounting and reporting to ensure transparency and verifiability of emission reductions from SAF. The airlines will also explore joint procurement opportunities for SAF at selected locations to boost production and adoption within the industry.
The second focus area will involve exchanging best practices to reduce single-use plastics, minimize waste, and improve energy efficiency in ground and cargo operations. This collaboration aims to enhance both airlines' sustainability performance and expedite the implementation of sustainable solutions.
Mr. Ronald Lam, CEO of Cathay Group, said: “Under our collaborative ethos of ‘Greener Together’, we seek partnerships with industry leaders to transition to sustainable aviation. Our collaboration with Singapore Airlines aims to accelerate the development of the SAF supply chain in the region, fostering a reliable SAF ecosystem to achieve long-term decarbonization goals. Cathay was among the first Asian airlines to set a target of 10% SAF usage by 2030, and we are committed to contributing to the industry’s greener future.”
Mr. Goh Choon Phong, CEO of Singapore Airlines, said: “Singapore Airlines is dedicated to embedding sustainability across our operations. We recognize that achieving our targets requires collaboration. Our partnership with Cathay demonstrates our shared ambition to enhance sustainability efforts in the Asia-Pacific region. Together, we are laying the foundation for a more sustainable aviation industry, ensuring future generations can continue to enjoy the benefits of air travel.”
About Cathay
Cathay is a premium travel lifestyle brand that integrates travel with everyday lifestyle. Flights are operated by Hong Kong's flagship carrier Cathay Pacific, a premium full-service airline and a founding member of the oneworld global alliance. The airline's 2023 Sustainability Report outlines its commitment and progress in environmental, social, and governance areas. Cathay Pacific is committed to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, with a target of 10% SAF usage by 2030. For more information, visit www.cathay.com.
About Singapore Airlines
The Singapore Airlines (SIA) Group traces its history back to 1947 with the maiden flight of Malayan Airways, later renamed Malaysian Airways and then Malaysia-Singapore Airlines (MSA). In 1972, MSA split into Singapore Airlines and Malaysian Airline System. Starting with a fleet of 10 aircraft serving 22 destinations in 18 countries, SIA has grown into a world-class international airline group committed to Service Excellence, Product Leadership, and Network Connectivity. For more information, visit www.singaporeair.com.
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