Sustainability and Environment
SAF Mandate Complicates European Bizav’s Green Intentions
Industry calls for changes to Refuel EU rules
Bombardier fueling with SAF
The ReFuel EU mandate is creating headaches for business aviation operators. © AIN archives

The European business aviation sector continues to insist that the European Commission’s ReFuel EU mandate for increased SAF usage is a blunt instrument that is not fit for purpose. At the same time, Europe’s airlines agree with the Airlines for Europe and European Regions Airline Association calling for changes to the rules in mid-March.

From January 2025, ReFuel EU mandated the use of 2% blended SAF at EU airports, rising to at least 6% by 2030 (of which 0.7% must be e-fuel). However, the physical unavailability of SAF at many smaller airports serving business aviation—along with a lack of recognition for book-and-claim options—is only part of the problem.