European Airline Groups Demand Changes to ReFuelEU SAF Rules | Aviation International News

Sustainability and Environment

European Airlines Demand Changes to ReFuelEU Rules

Report highlights lack of transparency and consistency in SAF requirements

Neste SAF truck at airports — ReFuelEU rules are intended to prompt airlines to use more sustainable aviation fuel as part of the European Union’s net-zero decarbonization goals. © Neste

By Charles Alcock • Managing Editor

March 19, 2026

Airlines for Europe (A4E) and the European Regions Airline Association (ERA) have demanded changes to the European Commission’s ReFuelEU rules that mandate increased use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). In a joint report published on Thursday, the industry groups called for improvements to the system, which they said will make it “smarter and clearer.”

Core demands relate to ReFuelEU’s anti-fuel-tankering rule, how SAF documentation and alignment with the emissions trading scheme are handled, and fuel supplier market behavior and pricing transparency. The ETS is the EU framework through which all industries are subject to cap-and-trade mandates requiring them to hold allowances for every metric ton of carbon dioxide they emit.

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