In a significant leap toward decarbonizing air travel, Finnair has successfully operated its first commercial passenger flight powered entirely by 100% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). This milestone flight, conducted between Helsinki and Stockholm, represents a critical advancement in the quest for net-zero emissions in aviation. While SAF has been blended with conventional jet fuel in previous initiatives, Finnair’s operation marks one of the first instances in Europe where an entire flight was powered exclusively by SAF.

The fuel, produced from renewable waste and residue raw materials, offers up to 80% reduction in lifecycle carbon emissions compared to traditional jet fuel. This achievement not only demonstrates the technical viability of SAF but also highlights the importance of industry collaboration—Finnair partnered with Neste and airport authorities to ensure seamless fuel delivery and compatibility with existing infrastructure. The event is expected to accelerate regulatory approval for higher SAF blends and inspire further investment in sustainable fuel production across Europe and beyond.