Air France-KLM has turned discarded onboard items into a force for good through a sustainability initiative that reimagines waste as a resource. By collecting unused and left-behind comfort kit items from flights arriving in Johannesburg and Cape Town, the airline group is aiming to create a meaningful impact in South African communities.
Each day, amenity kits containing items such as eye masks, toothbrushes, lip balm, face cream and pouches are recovered from aircraft. Instead of these items ending up in landfills, Air France-KLM says it is giving them a second life through innovative, community-focused projects.
"At Air France-KLM, sustainability is not just a goal — it's a mindset that influences every part of our operation," says Wilson Tauro, Country Manager Southern Africa at Air France-KLM.
"This initiative is a great example of what we call 'wealth from waste' — turning simple, often discarded items into something practical, valuable and empowering for local communities. It's also a wonderful way to extend the life of our products while giving back to the people who welcome us into their country every day," adds Tauro.
According to Air France-KLM, the initiative is making a difference through:
Eye Masks
Elastic bands are repurposed into vibrant scrunchies, donated to young girls in schools. The eye masks themselves are being trialled as material for reusable sanitary pads, helping to support menstrual health and dignity.
Toothbrushes and Toothpaste
Distributed to schools in township areas, these kits help instil positive hygiene practices among young learners.
Lip Balm and Creams
These essentials are handed out to schoolchildren to help protect their skin, especially during dry winter months.
Air France Pouches
Refilled with stationery, these pouches are repurposed into pencil cases for learners.
KLM Business Class Pouches
Durable and stylish, these are transformed into shopping totes, supporting sustainability in daily life.
Air France-KLM concludes that this initiative reflects Air France-KLM's commitment to the circular economy, ensuring that materials are reused, repurposed and redirected toward initiatives that uplift and empower. It's one more way the airline group is integrating sustainable thinking into real-world action — all while strengthening its ties to the South African communities it proudly serves.
For more information, visit www.airfranceklm.com. You can also follow Air France-KLM on LinkedIn or on X.
*Image courtesy of contributor