German carrier Lufthansa Cargo has successfully conducted the first CO2-neutral freight flight from Frankfurt to Shanghai and back to the Hessian metropolis.

Using only Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), Lufthansa Cargo’s Boeing 777F bearing flight number LH8406 flew the commercial flight.

The feat was achieved by the air freight company in collaboration with logistic service provider DB Schenker. They transported goods from Siemens Healthineers and others.

Lufthansa Cargo CEO Peter Gerber said: “With this flight, we are committed to the increased research and use of SAF so that sufficient quantities of the alternative fuel will be available in the future.

“In addition to investments in a modern freighter fleet, our commitment to this CO2-neutral flight also contributes to the United Nations’ ‘Climate Action’ sustainability goal.

“Because Lufthansa Cargo takes its corporate responsibility very seriously and is actively taking measures to meet this responsibility and relieve the environment.”

This achievement is the initial steps in a joint effort agreed this month to stop using fossil fuels in aviation.

Sustainable Aviation Fuel is sustainable, synthetic kerosene produced primarily from biomass, including sustainable or recyclable vegetable and cooking oils.

DB Schenker CEO Jochen Thewes said: “With the start of the 2021 summer flight schedule, DB Schenker will offer greenhouse gas-neutral air freight as a regular product.”

In September, Lufthansa announced an additional reduction to its fleet and workforce as international air traffic continues to face the impact due to the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic.