Meet Kanika

What does an average day at work look like for you?

A typical day involves engaging with a diverse network of stakeholders including SAF producers, the research and development (R&D) organisations, airlines and regulators, to explore new opportunities and advance agreed collaborations that drive the growth of SAF in the region.

What was your path to your current role?

With a master’s degree in economics and a finance background, I’ve spent my career evaluating projects primarily on their commercial viability. However, I believe the world is changing. Sustainability is no longer a ‘nice-to-have’. Instead, it’s a critical business differentiator, driven by increasing pressure from stakeholders. It was this conviction that led me to take on the responsibility of strengthening Airbus’ sustainability and SAF practices in the region.

What is the one project you have worked on at Airbus that stands out for you the most?

I am driven by the opportunity to solve complex problems. One project I am particularly proud of involves exploring innovative pathways for SAF production, including converting landfill waste into SAF. This initiative addresses both waste management challenges and the need for alternative fuels. To advance this project, we are funding research at a leading university in India and supporting an NGO that facilitates waste collection. In the coming months we will not only assess the technological outcomes of this research but also its social impact. Initiatives like this help me see the value of my work and the positive contribution I can make, not only to my organisation but also to society at large.

How does sustainability show up in your life outside of work? 

Working on sustainability has deeply influenced the way I live my life, making me pause and reflect on the choices I make every day. I find myself questioning my buying habits, asking whether I truly need something before purchasing it and making the best use of the resources I already have. Waste segregation was always part of my routine, but now it has become a way to inspire others, as I share my learnings with friends and neighbours so they too can make small but meaningful changes.

I have realised that once you begin to see the potential consequences of your choices, there’s no going back. Knowledge and perspective can open the door to action. That’s why my advice to anyone interested in sustainability is simple: start by learning to see the bigger picture.

How does your role contribute to Airbus’ sustainable performance and our mission to pioneer sustainable aerospace?

I feel fortunate and proud to be part of a team that is shaping and influencing the SAF ecosystem. SAF has a critical role to play in the decarbonisation of the aviation sector. Today, I am engaged in regulatory discussions, evaluating pioneering SAF production projects, and supporting research efforts – all of which directly contribute to Airbus’ purpose to pioneer sustainable aerospace.

What do you think the long-term impact of the work you are doing at Airbus will be?

The work we’re undertaking has the potential to make an important contribution, not just on our company’s success but on the decarbonisation of the aviation industry globally. We are forging strategic partnerships with suppliers and airlines to drive the growth of the SAF sector. We are also navigating complex challenges like high production costs and scaling infrastructure to make a tangible, lasting change.

What lesson have you learned that might inspire others to take action? 

Build knowledge before drawing conclusions, especially on topics like sustainability. When taking action, ask yourself whether you are solving a real problem or simply creating the feeling of having done good work. For example, not all plastic is worse than glass; what truly matters is the lifecycle impact of the product. Like any other business decision, sustainability decisions should be made objectively rather than emotionally. Only then can we create a truly sustainable business model.