(Alliance News) - Abu Dhabi Aviation and Leonardo Spa on Thursday announced the completion of two flights by the Emirati operator's AW139 helicopter powered by a blend of conventional and SAF, Sustainable Aviation Fuel, in Abu Dhabi on Nov. 28 and 30, hosting UAE authorities and industry representatives on board the latter flight.

"These are the first SAF flights in the helicopter field carried out in the Middle Eastern country and the region. The accomplishment of these initiatives demonstrate the capability and real commitment of ADA and Leonardo toward reducing the global impact of CO2 emissions generated by the aviation sector," Leonardo specified in a note.

On the occasion, Abu Dhabi Aviation Chairman Nader Ahmed Al Hammadi said the company is committed to working with its strategic partners to accelerate the zeroing of CO2 in aviation, help achieve the country's climate goals, and increase and maintain fuel efficiency. He added, "We intend to reaffirm ADA's commitment to support the UAE's aviation efforts to ensure sustainable growth and SAF adoption in the future."

Gian Piero Cutillo, Leonardo Helicopters MD, commented, "These SAF flights carried out in the UAE by an AW139 helicopter operated by Abu Dhabi Aviation demonstrated what is possible in order to support the rapidly evolving sustainability requirements in aviation. This technology can produce real benefits in the Middle East region, in all geographic areas around the world, and for all missions, and can be made available within a reasonable timeframe. We are committed to working with authorities, players in the energy industry and helicopter service providers with the aim of incentivizing the use of SAF fuel to support CO2 reduction."

ADA and Leonardo have been working together for more than 15 years. The operator has acquired a total of 33 helicopters to date, mainly AW139s. Recently, ADA reached 100,000 flight hours with its fleet of Leonardo helicopters. This is in addition to comprehensive local support, maintenance and overhaul services established in the country about a decade ago with the creation of the AgustaWestland Aviation Services joint venture and the later addition of capabilities in training and simulation.

Leonardo's stock is up 2.3 percent at EUR14.45 per share.

By Chiara Bruschi, Alliance News reporter

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