Regulations and Government
IATA Report Urges SAF Policy Changes
SAF output still not enough to meet needs
Air bp SAF refueler
According to IATA, instead of promoting the use of sustainable aviation fuels, Europe's SAF mandates have made the renewable fuel five times more expensive than conventional jet fuel. © Air bp

A recent report from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) predicts worldwide unblended sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production will top 2 million tonnes (660 million gallons) this year. That still equates to less than 1% of the airlines’ total fuel consumption for the year.

“While it is encouraging that SAF production is expected to double to 2 million tonnes in 2025, that is just 0.7% of aviation’s total fuel needs,” said IATA director general Willie Walsh, adding that even that minuscule amount will add $4.4 billion to customers’ fuel cost. “The pace of progress in ramping up production and gaining efficiencies to reduce costs must accelerate.”