Air France-KLM CEO Ben Smith has issued a stark warning that proposed EU sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) mandates would force the airline to drastically reduce its long-haul flights to Asia. Half of the carrier's Asia route network could be cut if the regulations take effect as planned. Smith emphasized the rules would create a 'significant competitive disadvantage' for European airlines compared to their global rivals, who face less stringent fuel requirements. The airline's reliance on high-margin long-haul routes makes this threat particularly severe, potentially reshaping its network and profitability.