Saudia joins The Aviation Challenge to drive innovation and sustainability

The Aviation Challenge 2024 is an industry-wide initiative led by SkyTeam aimed at fostering innovation and advancing sustainability across the global aviation sector. This marks Saudia's third consecutive year participating in the challenge, further enhancing its extensive sustainability initiatives.

Saudia’s participation in The Aviation Challenge 2024 aligns with its strategic vision of promoting sustainability and operational excellence, in line with the objectives outlined in Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This commitment underscores the airline’s dedication to sustainable practices and its contribution to the global aviation industry's long-term goals.

Last year, Saudia received two prestigious awards in this global sustainability challenge: “Most Innovative Ground Operations” and “Best Employee Engagement and Collaboration.” The airline was also nominated as a finalist for the “Greatest Carbon Reduction” award for medium-haul flights.

In line with its new sustainability strategy, Saudia’s approach to the challenge this year featured several initiatives aimed at enhancing the entire guest journey. These initiatives focused on both social and environmental sustainability, which are reflected in both the guest experience and operational efficiency.

These initiatives included fuel optimisation, electric ground support equipment, sustainable onboard products, and improved waste management. To ensure economic sustainability, Saudia also prioritised locally sourced materials to boost local content.

Maryam Telmesani, vice president of sustainability at Saudia Group, said: “Saudia’s approach to sustainability is holistic and balanced, reflecting our long-standing efforts in pioneering sustainable aviation. We aim to share success stories from the Kingdom with the world, integrating social, environmental, and economic factors while aligning with Saudi Vision 2030 and global sustainability standards. We are excited to continue leading the way in innovative practices that set new benchmarks in the industry.”