Pelita Air Officially Takes Flight Using UCO-Based Bioavtur (SAF)
A new milestone in Indonesia’s energy transition has been achieved. Pertamina has officially launched and distributed Pertamina Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), an eco-friendly fuel processed from Used Cooking Oil (UCO). The historic flight using this SAF was operated by Pelita Air on the Jakarta-Bali route on Wednesday, August 20, 2025.
This progressive step strengthens Indonesia’s commitment to decarbonizing the aviation sector and supports the Net Zero Emission (NZE) 2050 target.
Circular Economy and Pertamina’s Strategic Role
Mars Ega Legowo Putra, Director of Pertamina Patra Niaga, emphasized that Pertamina’s role extends beyond distribution to being a primary feedstock provider. The UCO used for this SAF is collected directly from the community, including households, restaurants, and small businesses.
“We ensured the distribution of Pertamina SAF was executed perfectly so this maiden flight could proceed smoothly,” said Mars Ega. He highlighted that this effort encourages active public participation, creating a circular economy that boosts local economic value. “This development doesn’t just support the energy transition; it opens new economic opportunities for the people,” he added.
SAF as a Tool for Geopolitics and National Resilience
The innovation of SAF is seen as more than a technical achievement. Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs, Arif Havas Oegroseno, asserted that Pertamina SAF has become a strategic instrument in Indonesia’s global energy diplomacy.
“Pertamina Group must be a pioneer. As a capable nation—the first and only in ASEAN to produce its own SAF—we should lead in research, marketing, and policy. Indonesia has the assets to be a global leader,” stated Havas.
The development of SAF aligns with President Prabowo Subianto’s Asta Cita directive regarding energy resilience, independence, and self-sufficiency. Pertamina SAF has also “leveled up” by obtaining global sustainability certifications, strengthening Indonesia’s bargaining position in international markets.
A Hub for Global Innovation
Odo R.M. Manuhutu, Deputy for Connectivity Coordination at the Coordinating Ministry for Infrastructure & Regional Development, added that the next vital step is establishing Indonesia as a global SAF ecosystem hub.
“We are fulfilling our NZE commitment in the aviation sector by 2050. This SAF roadmap is one of our key efforts to achieve that. The hope is that Indonesia will not just be a user, but a center for innovation—the leader in Southeast Asia,” Odo concluded.
The first distribution of Pertamina SAF marks a new chapter for Indonesia, proving that climate commitments can be realized through the powerful collaboration of industry and society.