ITB received a special invitation from the Directorate General of New and Renewable Energies and Energy Conservation. Represented by Prof. Reini Wirahadikusumah and key members, including the Director of PT LAPI ITB, the Team Leader of ITB Flight Test Researchers, and the Team Leader of ITB Catalyst Researchers, the institute played a pivotal role in this groundbreaking initiative.

The "From Nature to Future" Sustainable Aviation Fuel Ceremonial Flight took place on National Aviation Day, utilizing a Boeing 737-800NG (PK-GFX). The flight covered a round trip from Soekarno-Hatta International Airport to Adi Soemarmo International Airport, Surakarta, spanning a distance of 550 kilometers (342 miles) and accommodating over 100 passengers.

The aircraft utilized Pertamina SAF with the Bioavtur J2.4 specification. This SAF is produced by Green Refinery RU IV Cilacap, employing a co-processing method and containing 2.4% renewable content with a capacity of 9 KBPD. The usage of this fuel has the potential to reduce carbon emissions from flights by up to 22,000 tons of CO2 annually.

Distinguished by its eco-friendly composition, the Bioavtur J2.4 includes a blend of palm oil components. This product is hailed for its ability to decrease aircraft emissions and is anticipated to contribute to industry development and the national economy.

This event marked a significant milestone as the first bioavtur-fueled commercial flight in Indonesia, leveraging renewable energy derived from palm kernel oil. The adoption of eco-friendly fuel aligns with emission reduction efforts and supports the Net Zero Emission (NZE) target.

The development of Pertamina SAF fuel commenced in 2010, culminating in the creation of SAF J2.4 through PT Kilang Pertamina Internasional in Refinery Unit IV Cilacap. With a capacity of 1,350 kiloliters per day, this SAF is produced using Refined Bleached Deodorized Palm Kernel Oil (RBDPKO).

ITB played a crucial role in coordinating with the Director General of New and Renewable Energies and Energy Conservation (EBTKE) during the implementation of Pertamina SAF Bioavtur J2.4. This initiative aligns with the government's commitment to achieving the Net Zero Emission target, particularly in the aviation sector.

The event garnered widespread attendance, including representatives from various ministries, State-Owned Enterprises (BUMN), associations, and companies. PT Garuda Indonesia provided the aircraft for the event, with the Director General of New and Renewable Energies and Energy Conservation (EBTKE) acting as the sponsor.

Reporter: M. Naufal Hafizh

Translator: Hanifa Juliana (Urban and Regional Planning, 2020)

Editor: Vera Citra Utami