Taking flight with sustainable aviation fuel: Benefits and considerations

Aviation is crucial for global transportation, connecting people and goods across vast distances. However, its environmental impact — particularly its carbon footprint — has become a significant concern in the face of climate change. As the sector works towards decarbonization, sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) will be key to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

Benefits of sustainable aviation fuel

Reduces lifecycle carbon emissions

SAF can significantly reduce lifecycle carbon emissions compared to traditional aviation fuels. Depending on the feedstock, SAF can reduce emissions by up to 80%, leading to a substantial decrease in the carbon intensity of aviation.

Contributes to cleaner air

The benefits of SAF begin with its production. Biogenic feedstocks used to create SAF absorb carbon dioxide during growth, making the fuel more sustainable. SAF emits fewer harmful pollutants and contains fewer sulfur and aromatic components, enabling aircraft engines to burn more cleanly and produce less pollution than conventional fuels.

Compatible with existing aircraft

SAF acts as a “drop-in” fuel. Blended with up to 50% conventional jet fuel, it can be used without any modifications to existing aircraft or infrastructure. This allows airlines to transition seamlessly to this low-carbon alternative. In the long term, new commercial jet engines compatible with 100% SAF are anticipated as technology and investment in SAF grow.

Creates new economic opportunities

The increasing demand for SAF should ultimately boost supply, creating economic opportunities — especially in rural communities where feedstock cultivation occurs. Additionally, scaling SAF production will require more production plants, leading to employment opportunities as this infrastructure is developed.

Enhances energy security

SAF can be produced from various renewable resources, reducing the industry’s dependence on fossil fuels. This diversification contributes to long-term energy security and can provide a more stable and predictable fuel supply even amidst volatile oil markets.

Challenges of SAF

High cost to scale production

Currently, SAF is more expensive than traditional jet fuel. Achieving economies of scale to reduce production costs and the high cost of specialized processing required for biofuels are primary challenges. However, as demand for SAF grows and technology advances, the aviation sector expects SAF to become more financially viable.

Limited supply and manufacturing constraints

Access to SAF is a significant obstacle. Production, distribution, and refueling infrastructure for SAF are not yet widespread. Airports with access to physical SAF are limited, and shipping the fuel can increase the fuel's life cycle emissions. Systems like "book and claim" will be essential to SAF adoption where physical fuel is not available.

Feedstock selection and availability

There is limited feedstock diversity among commercially available SAF today. This is expected to change, with different feedstocks offering various benefits and disadvantages. Identifying and sourcing appropriate feedstocks at scale will be an ongoing discussion in the years ahead.

Fuel for the future

SAF can replace fossil-based fuels with the same (or similar) energy outputs and physical characteristics — but at a fraction of the carbon intensity. Currently, only 0.2% of global jet fuel is SAF, and its limited production makes SAF nearly three times more expensive than petroleum fuel. However, investing in SAF is anticipated to increase its use and accessibility, ultimately stabilizing costs.

To achieve widespread adoption of SAF and maximize its impact, we need to scale production, build infrastructure, and continue technological advancements. This progress requires a concerted effort from key stakeholders, including governments, regulatory bodies, the scientific community, airlines, logistics companies, and individual and corporate travelers.

SAF represents a promising solution for reducing the environmental impact of aviation and achieving ambitious emission reduction goals.