Kenya Airways makes history sustainable aviation fuel from Nairobi to Cape Town

A significant milestone has been achieved, a continental first for African aviation with the arrival of a Kenya Airways flight from Nairobi powered by Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) produced in Kenya.

The announcement was made by the City of Cape Town’s mayco member for Economic Growth,  James Vos on Wednesday.

“As someone who’s long championed the Open Skies policy for Africa, this moment is especially meaningful. Because as we connect our cities to grow trade and tourism, we must do it responsibly. That means ensuring that our open skies are also clean skies.”

Vos added that this is a defining milestone showing that sustainable aviation fuel can be produced and used right here in Africa, advancing our continent’s shift toward low-carbon aviation and green-growth innovation.

“Not long ago, I was in Nairobi to sign the Sister City agreement between Cape Town and Nairobi, and it feels like a full-circle moment to now welcome this Kenya Airways flight powered by sustainable aviation fuel, the first of its kind from Nairobi to Cape Town.”

He said while hosting this landmark flight in Cape Town reinforces, the city’s role as a gateway for collaboration.

"Where Africa’s green-aviation ambitions meet real partnerships and opportunity," he added.

“From the southern tip of the continent, we’re proudly flying the flag for an Africa that’s connected, sustainable, and ready to lead.”

In the news of aviation, the month of August  recorded a 30.2% year-on-year increase in South Africa’s international tourist arrivals, reaching 935, 738 visitors.

Earlier this month, Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille welcomed the continued upward trend in South Africa’s international tourist arrivals, with August 2025 recording a 30.2% year-on-year increase, reaching 935,738 visitors. 

Cumulatively, 6.79 million tourists visited the country between January and August 2025, a 15.8% rise compared to the same period last year.

Africa land arrivals rose by 31.8%, supported by Lesotho with +110.2% and Mozambique showcasing +36.8%, while Africa air arrivals increased to 26.3%, driven by Nigeria  with +46.6%) and the DRC to +75.9%.

Regional Highlights include the following: Europe saw arrivals grow by 20.8%, led by the UK with +28.9% and Germany +33.6%, Central and South America surged by 63.6%, with Brazil at +77.2% and Argentina +85.5%, showing exceptional performance.

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