Saudi Gazette report

RIYADH — Red Sea Global (RSG), a Public Investment Fund (PIF)-owned company, announced the introduction of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) to the Kingdom on Wednesday.

The adoption of SAF will reduce the environmental impacts of air travel in the Kingdom, cutting carbon emissions by up to 35%.

Airlines operating at Red Sea International Airport (RSI) will have access to the eco-friendly fuel. RSG has secured the fuel’s availability through its collaboration with DAA International and the Arabian Petroleum Supply Company.

The sustainable fuel used at RSI consists of 35% SAF and 65% traditional Jet A1 fuel. The blend follows international industry standards and helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Fly Red Sea, a subsidiary of RSG, will also utilize SAF and other lower-carbon aviation fuels in its operations.

“This is a milestone in our sustainability efforts. By introducing SAF to Saudi Arabia, we are reducing our guests’ carbon footprint from the moment they travel to and from our destinations while inspiring the aviation sector to make more eco-conscious decisions,” said John Pagano, Group CEO of RSG.

The introduction of SAF is part of RSG’s broader environmental goals. The company has already installed more than 400 MWp of solar panels near the Red Sea, preventing up to 600,000 tons of CO2 emissions annually. RSG is also working on the thriving of mangroves in partnership with the National Center for Vegetation Cover and other stakeholders.

“Introducing sustainable aviation fuel at RSI is a key achievement in our environmental commitment,” said Michael White, Chief Commercial Officer at RSI. “Not only does it help reduce carbon emissions, but it also supports our broader goal of protecting the Red Sea’s unique ecosystem,” he added.

Local flights to RSI began in 2023, and the company launched international flights last year.