Sustainable Aviation Fuel, otherwise known as SAF, is a non-fossil-derived alternative to conventional jet fuel. A ‘drop-in fuel’ that can be safely blended with conventional jet fuel at a maximum ratio of 50%, requiring no modifications to existing aircraft engines or infrastructure. With the potential to reduce CO2 lifecycle emissions by up to 80%, sustainable aviation fuel is a cleaner and greener substitute for conventional jet fuel.
For sustainable aviation fuel to be eligible for its use of the term ‘sustainable’ it must adhere to eligibility criteria defined at a macro level.
There are several production pathways for sustainable aviation fuels; bio-SAF derives from agricultural residue sources called feedstocks, including used cooking oil, algae, forestry residues and even municipal waste. Meanwhile, e-SAF is a synthetic fuel derived from renewable energy sources.
