Sustainable Aviation Fuel Production to Double by 2025, but Challenges Remain

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has announced that the production of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) is expected to double by 2025, reaching 200,000 metric tons. This increase, while notable, will only account for 0.7% of the global aviation industry's fuel consumption. The association has repeatedly warned that airlines may struggle to meet their sustainability goals due to the slow pace of SAF production, which is more expensive than traditional jet fuel.

IATA's Director General, Willie Walsh, acknowledged the encouraging growth in SAF production but emphasized that the relatively small output will drive up global aviation fuel costs by 4.4 billion dollars. He stressed the urgent need to accelerate production and improve efficiency to lower costs. "We must speed up the progress in increasing production and enhancing efficiency to reduce costs," Walsh stated in a press release.

In 2021, the entire aviation industry agreed on a goal to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, primarily by gradually transitioning to SAF made from waste oil and biomass. However, there are disagreements between airlines and energy companies regarding the shortage of SAF supply, and both parties have criticized aircraft manufacturers Airbus and Boeing for delays in delivering more fuel-efficient jet aircraft.

The IATA's projections highlight the challenges and opportunities in transitioning to more sustainable aviation practices. As the industry faces increasing pressure to reduce its carbon footprint, the role of SAF in achieving net-zero emissions remains a critical focus for stakeholders and policymakers. The association's call for policy changes and increased investment in SAF production underscores the need for a more coordinated global effort to support the aviation industry's sustainability goals.