LATAM Cargo Group and Andes Integración Logística Deliver First Reduced-Emission Salmon Shipment
LATAM Cargo Group and Andes Integración Logística have completed the first premium salmon air shipment in South America with a certified reduced carbon footprint, marking a milestone in the region’s air cargo decarbonisation efforts.
The shipment, carried from Chile to the United States for exporter AquaChile, was executed on 7 March 2026 and utilised Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) through the Book & Claim model.
Book & Claim Model Enables Verified Emissions Reduction
The operation incorporated the allocation of more than 350 litres of SAF, enabling a certified 10% reduction in CO₂ emissions, equivalent to approximately 0.6 tonnes of CO₂ for the shipment.
The Book & Claim mechanism allows environmental benefits from SAF use to be attributed to specific shipments, even when the fuel is not physically used on the same flight, ensuring traceable and verifiable emissions reductions.
The SAF used in the initiative—produced from animal waste residues—offers lifecycle emissions reductions of approximately 74.7% compared to conventional jet fuel, based on standard calculation methodologies.
Supporting Sustainable Export Logistics
The shipment consisted of more than three tonnes of premium salmon, highlighting growing demand among exporters for lower-carbon logistics solutions, particularly for high-value, time-sensitive goods.
Cristina Oñate, Product Sustainability Manager at LATAM Cargo Group, said the project demonstrates that meaningful decarbonisation is achievable when all stakeholders in the logistics chain collaborate.
She noted that expanding access to traceable SAF-based solutions will enable more South American exporters to reduce the environmental impact of their international shipments.
Collaboration Across the Supply Chain
Jan-Henrik Hertel, Director of Processes at Andes Integración Logística, emphasised the role of freight forwarders in supporting sustainability goals, stating that logistics providers can act as active contributors to decarbonisation rather than simply transport facilitators.
AquaChile also highlighted the importance of participating in initiatives that improve sustainability in export operations, particularly for key markets such as the United States.
Advancing Air Cargo Decarbonisation in South America
The operation represents a significant step forward for sustainable air freight in South America, demonstrating how SAF and Book & Claim mechanisms can be applied in real-world export scenarios.
As demand for lower-emission logistics continues to grow, similar initiatives are expected to play an increasing role in shaping the future of air cargo across the region.