Finnair partners with CN Logistics to cut air cargo emissions

Finnair has partnered with CN Logistics International Holdings—a Hong Kong-based logistics company under DP World—to promote the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) in air cargo operations. As part of the collaboration, CN Logistics has co-funded a batch of SAF with Finnair to help reduce Scope 3 greenhouse gas emissions linked to its cargo shipments.

This initiative supports Finnair’s broader sustainability goals, including its science-based target to reduce carbon emissions intensity (measured as CO₂e per revenue tonne kilometre, or RTK) by 34.5% by 2033, using 2023 as the baseline. The target, validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), forms part of Finnair’s long-term ambition to reach net-zero emissions by 2050.

Finnair’s decarbonisation strategy combines increased SAF usage with investments in fuel-efficient flight operations and a modern fleet. Most of its long-haul flights are operated by Airbus A350 aircraft, which incorporate lightweight materials, next-generation engines, and adaptive wing technology—delivering up to 25% greater fuel efficiency than older A330 models. The airline also continues to explore new technologies and reduce operational aircraft weight to further enhance energy efficiency.

Sustainability is integrated into Finnair’s infrastructure as well. The COOL Nordic Cargo Hub at Helsinki Airport, opened in 2018, was designed with long-term energy efficiency in mind. The terminal, certified by BREEAM, operates with support from nearly 3,000 solar panels
that supply about 37% of the facility’s energy needs. Automated warehousing, guided truck yard systems, and waste management strategies further optimise the terminal’s environmental performance.

In addition to fuel and infrastructure improvements, Finnair has also committed to circular economy principles across its operations. The airline is working toward a company-wide target of 100% material management, ensuring that all waste ending at its Helsinki hub is either reused as energy, heat, biogas, manure, or material—completely avoiding landfills. Finnair has introduced measures to phase out single-use plastics, promote the recycling of packaging and cardboard, and explore reuse and recycling strategies for cargo nets, straps, and wood materials.

For CN Logistics, the partnership is part of its commitment to carbon neutrality and sustainable logistics under its CNL Green Solution framework. The collaboration with Finnair illustrates how freight forwarders and airlines can jointly take responsibility for climate impact and co-develop low-emission solutions for global trade.