SAF IMPLEMENTATION IN EGYPT

Initial adoption aligned with ICAO policy direction
Egypt’s Ministry of Civil Aviation, under Minister Sameh El-Hefny, has initiated the use of SAF as part of a broader strategy to reduce reliance on conventional fossil fuels and align with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) environmental objectives.

The initiative forms part of ongoing efforts to support emissions reduction, encourage green investment, and position the aviation sector within longer-term sustainability frameworks.

CONTINENTAL POLICY DEVELOPMENT

Pretoria workshop brings multi-country participation
A continental workshop on SAF development and deployment was held in Pretoria, with participation from policymakers, regulators, industry representatives and private sector stakeholders from multiple African countries.

The event was conducted under the patronage of the African Union and the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), reflecting coordinated efforts to support aviation decarbonisation across the continent.

Egypt was represented by Captain Karim Gamal, Advisor to the Chairman of the Egyptian Civil Aviation Authority.

STRATEGIC AND ECONOMIC CONSIDERATIONS

SAF linked to broader industrial value chains
Discussions during the workshop focused on mechanisms for developing SAF production and supply systems within Africa. Participants reviewed strategic approaches aimed at improving energy security, supporting industrial development, and strengthening local value chains linked to aviation and energy sectors.

The development of SAF was identified as having potential economic implications across multiple sectors, including agriculture, energy production, transport and industrial processing.

REGIONAL CO-OPERATION AND POLICY FRAMEWORKS

Emphasis on partnerships and regulatory alignment
Participants highlighted the importance of regional co-operation and cross-border collaboration in developing SAF infrastructure and supply chains. The workshop also examined the role of joint projects and pooled resources in accelerating deployment.

Recommendations included:

• Development of incentive-based policy frameworks
• Support for research and innovation
• Strengthening public-private partnerships
• Progress towards harmonised regulatory structures across African states

SECTOR CONTEXT

Growth and sustainability alignment
The discussions take place against a backdrop of continued growth in the African aviation sector, with SAF identified as a component in managing emissions associated with that expansion.