Kenya Airways has been recognized for its leadership in sustainability, winning two awards at the 2024 SkyTeam Aviation Challenge in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. During the announcement on January 14-15th, the airline was honored with the Best Scaled Catering Solution and the Best Approach to Scaling Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), marking significant milestones in its ongoing efforts to reduce its environmental impact.
The SkyTeam Aviation Challenge 2024, which took place from January 14-15, marked its third edition. The annual event recognizes airlines that implement innovative solutions to address major challenges in the aviation sector. This year’s competition focused on scaling solutions that have already been implemented to create sustainable, long-term impacts.
Kenya Airways participated in the challenge by operating four long-haul flights—Nairobi to New York, Amsterdam, Paris, and London—under sustainability-focused parameters. Key initiatives included sustainable in-flight catering, geo-optimization of ground operations, e-mobility solutions for passenger transport, a “travel light” policy to minimize baggage weight, and waste management efforts aimed at reducing carbon emissions.
Kenya Airways was recognized for its innovative approach to reducing single-use plastics onboard in the Best Scaled Catering Solution category. By introducing traditional African bread baskets and aluminum food containers in economy class, the airline will eliminate 24 tonnes of plastic waste annually. This sustainable initiative is part of Kenya Airways’ broader goal to reduce its environmental footprint and promote eco-friendly practices across its operations.
Reflecting on the achievement, Kenya Airways CEO, Allan Kilavuka remarked, “The wins and recognition at the 2024 Aviation Challenge are testament to our commitment to sustainability and innovation. By embracing sustainable aviation fuel, reducing single-use plastics, and fostering collaboration across teams, we are driving meaningful change for the aviation industry and our planet.”
The airline was also awarded Best Approach to Scaling SAF for its partnership with a local SAF producer to establish Kenya’s first SAF production plant. This initiative will deliver affordable SAF to Kenya and the surrounding region, create jobs for the Kwale County community, and enhance environmental sustainability by cultivating energy seed plants on arid and degraded lands.
In addition to these top awards, Kenya Airways was also recognized in several other categories. The airline earned the Best Team Collaboration award for its Sustainability Champions program, which fosters cross-departmental collaboration to promote sustainability. The airline was also lauded for Best Climate Literacy due to its multi-level sustainability training programs aimed at increasing environmental awareness within the organization. Special mentions were given to Kenya Airways in the areas of Scaling SAF, Best Catering Solution, and overall Airline Participation.
