Kenyan startup Bleriot Group is advancing plans to produce sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) on a commercial scale by 2027. The company aims to establish small, modular SAF plants at airports across Kenya, targeting local airlines and operators to enhance regional sustainable aviation efforts.
The company's CEO, Serguei Poppeleer, indicated that the manufacturing plans are contingent upon Kenyan petroleum laws expected to be enacted in 2026, which will support biofuel and SAF mandates. The legislation is expected to require a 1% SAF blend in jet fuel, creating early demand. Bleriot already produced limited SAF quantities using a pilot reactor and intends to install a more efficient second-generation reactor before year-end.
Strategic Collaboration and Market Entry
Bleriot is working with the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority for feedstock approval and certification, emphasizing the need for sustainable sources that do not compete with food supplies. Additionally, collaboration with Kenya Airways is underway to develop SAF supply chains, with plans to expand into the land transportation market by blending 20% biofuels into gasoline, as mandated by Kenya’s new petroleum laws.
"The key is to develop a scalable, affordable, modular SAF production system to reduce costs and environmental impact," said Serguei Poppeleer.
The modular approach offers potential for on-site production, lowering transportation costs and environmental footprint. Bleriot's initiatives may position it as one of Africa’s pioneering SAF manufacturers, with significant regional implications for sustainable aviation practices.
Market experts note that Bleriot’s strategy aligns with rising regional sustainability efforts and could serve as a model for regional adoption of SAF, supporting East Africa's aviation and transportation sectors' growth and environmental objectives.
