In a groundbreaking achievement for India's aviation sector and its commitment to combatting climate change, the country's first commercial passenger flight successfully took to the skies powered by Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) blend, an indigenously developed air fuel. This momentous event, which aligns with the spirit of India's Aatmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan mission, marks a significant step towards decarbonizing the industry.

AirAsia India flight i5-767, a subsidiary of Air India and part of the Tata group, embarked on its journey from Pune to New Delhi, using a blend of indigenous aviation fuel supplied by Indian Oil Corporation Ltd. (IOCL) in collaboration with Praj Industries Ltd. (Praj). The flight's arrival in New Delhi was greeted by Hardeep Singh Puri, Union Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas, symbolizing a remarkable milestone in the nation's sustainable aviation endeavors.

Puri expressed his delight, stating, "Witnessing the historic occasion, I received the first commercial flight fueled by indigenous SAF blended ATF." He acknowledged that India aims to blend 1 percent SAF in jet fuel, requiring approximately 14 crore liters of SAF per annum by 2025.

Pramod Chaudhari, Founder Chairman of Praj Industries, lauded the achievement as this milestone underscores the crucial role of the agricultural sector in advancing sustainable initiatives.

Aloke Singh, Managing Director of AirAsia India and Air India Express, described the flight as a significant milestone towards a more sustainable future for India's aviation industry. IndianOil Chairman Vaidya expressed the company's commitment to a greener future, pledging to achieve net zero emissions by 2046 in line with the Prime Minister's vision.

India's pioneering feat in utilizing indigenous fuel for commercial flights not only sets a historic precedent but also stands as evidence of India's unwavering dedication to environmental sustainability and its pursuit of a greener and more prosperous future for all.