KLM launches 350km cycling expedition in Kenya for decarbonization push

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines celebrated its 106th anniversary by launching a cycling expedition from Nairobi to the Lolldaiga Conservancy in central Kenya, covering over 350 kilometers.

The initiative, part of The Aviation Challenge, underscores KLM’s commitment to decarbonizing air travel while fostering social and environmental sustainability.

The cyclists, flagged off by Zita Schellekens, Air France-KLM’s Senior Vice President for Group Sustainability, are delivering recyclable sanitary pads to a girls’ school in Laikipia.

This gesture highlights circular solutions, aligning with KLM’s focus on transforming waste into resources, including Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). SAF, which emits up to 80% less lifecycle carbon than traditional jet fuel, is central to KLM’s goal of reducing emissions per passenger kilometer by 30% by 2030, compared to 2019 levels.

“Sustainability is about more than decarbonization—it’s about being a responsible corporate citizen,” Schellekens said at the event. “This expedition is a fun, impactful way to give back to the communities we serve.”

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The Nairobi-to-Lolldaiga route serves a dual purpose: it promotes shared responsibility for climate action and explores local supply chains for SAF production. KLM is investigating how East African agricultural waste, used cooking oils, and organic residues can fuel future SAF initiatives through regional partnerships and joint ventures.

Joris Holtus, Air France-KLM’s General Manager for East and Southern Africa, Nigeria, and Ghana, emphasized the airline’s legacy and community ties. “This expedition honors our 106-year history while building sustainable connections with the communities where we operate,” he said.

The expedition follows a stakeholders’ workshop hosted by KLM and Kenya Airways, where a joint SAF action roadmap was outlined. This roadmap will guide pilot projects in Kenya and the Netherlands, setting targets for SAF adoption and fostering coordinated regional efforts.

As part of The Aviation Challenge, the initiative shifts focus to systems-level sustainability, integrating communities and supply chains. Unlike past efforts centered on flight optimization and onboard waste reduction, this expedition champions a holistic approach, reinforcing KLM’s vision for a sustainable aviation future.