On October 8, Cathay Cargo and DB Schenker celebrated a significant milestone with a signing ceremony held at Cathay’s Cathay City headquarters. This event marked DB Schenker’s official membership in the Cathay Corporate Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Programme, underscoring their commitment to reducing carbon emissions in the aviation sector. Attendees included Cathay Director Cargo Tom Owen and DB Schenker Vice President Global Carrier Relation Susanne Stemmer.
The collaboration is particularly notable as DB Schenker emerged as the largest contributor to the SAF Programme earlier in July, demonstrating both companies’ dedication to promoting sustainability within the air cargo industry. Speaking at the ceremony, Owen expressed enthusiasm for DB Schenker’s participation, stating, “We are delighted to welcome DB Schenker as the newest member of the Cathay Corporate SAF Programme, and as its biggest contributor. It is great to have this level of support from such an important player in the air cargo industry as we work together to decarbonise aviation.”
Established in 2022, the Cathay Corporate SAF Programme aims to tackle climate change by allowing members to purchase SAF for flights operated by Cathay Pacific and Cathay Cargo. With a commitment to buy 878 tonnes of SAF—equivalent to approximately 290,000 US gallons—DB Schenker will help reduce over 2,600 tonnes of carbon emissions, making a substantial impact on sustainability efforts.
SAF can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by over 80% on a life-cycle basis compared to conventional jet fuel, making it an essential component for achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. Cathay Pacific and Cathay Cargo aim to utilise SAF for 10% of their jet fuel consumption by 2030, complementing their Fly Greener programme, which supports carbon offsetting through certified environmental initiatives.
DB Schenker has been actively incorporating SAF into its transport volumes since 2020, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability. Alexander Mentgen, the Global Air Freight Sustainability Manager at DB Schenker, remarked, “SAF is making change possible already today. Our new SAF alliance with Cathay Cargo enhances our sustainability commitment and leadership in the skies.” Stemmer echoed this sentiment, emphasising the partnership’s potential to foster a more sustainable future for the aviation industry.
