Kazakhstan and U.S.-based LanzaJet explored the establishment of an integrated structure for joint project implementation, with LanzaJet proposing key directions for collaboration, Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov said following a high-level meeting.
Bektenov recently met with Jimmy Samartzis, Chief Executive Officer of LanzaJet, and Stephane Tzion, Vice President for Commercial Affairs, to discuss industrial and technological partnerships for producing sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).
The parties reviewed plans to construct a SAF plant in Rudny, Kostanay Region. The facility is expected to produce up to 54,000 tons of aviation fuel and process up to 100,000 tons of bioethanol annually. The project’s feasibility study has already been completed.
LanzaJet develops technology that converts ethanol from organic feedstock, such as grain, corn, and potatoes into SAF. The project is designed to promote green aviation, deepen agro-industrial processing in Kazakhstan, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions in line with the country’s climate and energy policy priorities.
“President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has set the task of creating an international air hub in Kazakhstan. Beyond expanding airport capacities and infrastructure, it is crucial to supply the industry with high-quality, eco-friendly aviation fuel. We are ready to expand cooperation, and the Government will provide comprehensive support for this project,” Bektenov said.
Founded by U.S. bioengineering leader LanzaTech and headquartered in Chicago, LanzaJet’s investors include International Airlines Group, Mitsui & Co., Shell, Suncor Energy, British Airways, Microsoft, Breakthrough Energy, All Nippon Airways (ANA), Airbus, and Groupe ADP. The company maintains long-term offtake agreements with the world’s largest airlines.
