Pertamina Patra Niaga, SGI, and Bell Textron Inc. Collaborate to Enhance SAF Utilization for Helicopter Decarbonization

Bali, September 20, 2024 – PT Pertamina Patra Niaga continues to strengthen its role in supporting energy transition in the aviation sector by distributing Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). At the Bali International Airshow 2024, at I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport, in collaboration with Sayap Garuda Indah (SGI) and Bell Textron Inc., the Bell 407 helicopter became the first in Indonesia to utilize SAF, marking a significant moment in supporting aviation decarbonization.

During the inaugural refueling and demo flight of the SGI helicopter at the Bali International Air Show 2024 (19/09), the President Director of PT Pertamina Patra Niaga, Riva Siahaan, stated that Pertamina’s commitment to distributing SAF is a key component of broader sustainability goals. It will increase SAF usage in aviation fleets, contributing to a lower carbon footprint achievement in the aviation sector.

"Last year, Pertamina’s SAF completed a flight test on a commercial Boeing 737-800 NG aircraft. Now, SGI has officially adopted Pertamina SAF for the Bell 407 helicopter, becoming the first helicopter in Indonesia to utilize SAF to reduce carbon emissions and support global efforts in combating climate change," Riva explained.

Riva added that the SAF supply at Ngurah Rai Airport demonstrates Indonesia's ability to adapt to the energy mix demands in the international aviation industry. Currently, SAF serves as a mid-term solution for aviation to reduce its carbon footprint without requiring changes to aircraft, airport infrastructure, or the jet fuel supply chain.

Pertamina’s SAF has fulfilled various international standards, including the International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) for the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA) and the Renewable Energy Directive-European Union (RED-EU).

Pertamina also ensures that this SAF is safe to use, complying with standards set by the American Society of Testing and Materials (ASTM) and being registered as Corsia Eligible Fuel (CEF) by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

"This synergy not only promotes sustainable aviation technology but also showcases the shared vision of Pertamina Patra Niaga, SGI, and Bell in creating a cleaner, more environmentally friendly future for aviation," Riva added.

SGI's investment in SAF aligns with its commitment to sustainable practices, reflecting a shared vision for a cleaner aviation future.

“At SGI, we are proud to be at the forefront of the aviation transformation toward sustainability in Indonesia. Adopting SAF is not just a step toward reducing carbon emissions. It is a commitment to a better future for our industry and the planet. Partnering with Pertamina and Bell Helicopters aligns perfectly with our ESG goals, strengthening our dedication to innovation and responsibility. This collaboration is a powerful example of how we can achieve meaningful environmental impacts through strategic partnerships, and we look forward to expanding the use of SAF as part of our broader mission to lead the way in sustainable aviation across the region,” said François Lassale, the CEO of PT Sayap Garuda Indah.

Additionally, this synergy is made possible with Bell, a leading helicopter manufacturer that supports SAF implementation in its fleet. This partnership facilitates the transition to more sustainable aviation practices and accelerates carbon emissions reduction in the aviation sector.

"Bell is honored to join SGI and Pertamina Patra Niaga in supporting the first helicopter flight in Indonesia using sustainable aviation fuel," said William Dickey, the Director of Business Development of Bell for the Asia-Pacific region.

"This milestone highlights Bell's dedication to alternative fuel solutions and our ongoing discussions with customers and regulators throughout Indonesia and the region regarding SAF adoption. Together, we aim to advance low-carbon aviation technology implementation," added William Dickey.

VP of Corporate Communication of Pertamina, Fadjar Djoko Santoso, stated separately that the Pertamina Group continues to market SAF not only for aircraft but also for helicopters. It is part of an effort to encourage wider SAF usage.

"Not just for airplanes, Pertamina Patra Niaga has also been able to distribute SAF for helicopter air transportation with SGI. It proves that Pertamina SAF products are recognized by the aviation industry, and in the future, they will have a positive impact not only financially but also in terms of the company’s contribution to reducing carbon emissions," said Fadjar.

Pertamina, as a leading company in the energy transition, is committed to supporting the Net Zero Emission 2060 target by continuously promoting programs that directly impact the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) achievement. All these efforts align with Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG) implementation across all Pertamina's business lines and operations.**