Finnair and DB Schenker have entered a sustainability partnership to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in air cargo transport. This collaboration is marked by DB Schenker's purchase of approximately 400 tons of Scope 3 CO2e reductions, equivalent to around 120 tons of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) from Finnair. Both companies are actively working to boost the use of SAF, a renewable and certified alternative to traditional fossil jet fuel.

Sustainable aviation fuel plays a crucial role in minimizing climate impact, potentially reducing GHG emissions by up to 80% across its lifecycle when compared to conventional jet fuel. By investing in SAF, Finnair and DB Schenker are taking important steps toward making cargo transport more environmentally sustainable.

Finnair has committed to reducing its carbon emissions intensity (CO2e/RTK) by 34.5% by 2033 from a 2023 baseline. This target has been approved by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). Additionally, Finnair is aligned with the broader airline industry’s goal to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. According to Gabriela Hiitola, Senior Vice President of Finnair Cargo, the company plans to achieve this goal by investing in SAF, enhancing operational efficiency, optimizing its network, and adopting new aircraft technology. Hiitola emphasized that collaborating with industry leaders like DB Schenker is critical to driving meaningful progress in reducing aviation emissions.

Through this agreement, DB Schenker will receive a verified Scope 3 emissions reduction certificate, demonstrating its contribution to lowering air cargo-related emissions. DB Schenker has been a pioneer in adopting SAF since 2020 and is steadily expanding its portfolio of low-carbon air freight solutions to support cargo shippers. Björn Eckbauer, Senior Vice President of Global Operations & Procurement Air at DB Schenker, highlighted the company’s commitment to decarbonizing air freight and scaling the use of SAF to create substantial environmental benefits. By partnering with Finnair, DB Schenker aims to provide its customers with more eco-friendly cargo transport options.

Finnair Cargo, a major air cargo carrier in northern Europe, operates from its primary hub at Helsinki Airport in Finland. The company connects destinations across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and the US. Known for its state-of-the-art air cargo terminal, which opened in 2018, Finnair Cargo specializes in handling temperature-sensitive shipments like seafood, pharmaceuticals, and perishables, ensuring safe and efficient transportation.

This collaboration between Finnair and DB Schenker marks a significant step in fostering sustainable practices within the air freight industry, demonstrating the potential of industry partnerships in tackling climate challenges.