The widespread adoption of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) could reduce aviation industry emissions by nearly two-thirds by 2050, according to a new report by Cleantech Group.
SAF adoption for long-haul flights alone, which make up just 6.2% of all flights, has the potential to eliminate half of the industry’s emissions. However, decarbonizing short- and medium-haul flights will require innovations like hybrid-electric and hydrogen fuel technologies.
“Global SAF production is increasing rapidly, but uptake remains at just 0.2% of global aircraft fuel,” said Nicole Cerulli, Associate, Transportation & Logistics at Cleantech Group. “Airlines and operators are actively engaging with decarbonization solutions such as electric, hydrogen, and hybrid aircraft to achieve high rates of decarbonization without relying on the uncertain SAF market.”
Europe Leads SAF Adoption
Europe is at the forefront of SAF adoption, accounting for 80% of the global market, followed by North America at 16%. In 2023, European carriers such as Air France-KLM and British Airways’ parent company IAG drove SAF usage to 167,000 tons. The continent aims to scale this to 1 million tons by 2025, propelled by decarbonization mandates and corporate commitments.
Key drivers include ambitious emissions goals set by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), along with EU minimum SAF uptake requirements. Corporations, particularly in the financial sector, are also accelerating SAF adoption to meet Scope 3 emissions targets.
Hybrid Aircraft: A Promising Path Forward
Hybrid-electric aircraft are emerging as a fast-track solution for reducing aviation emissions. Capable of cutting emissions by 40% to 100%, hybrid aircraft can be retrofitted or built new to serve regional routes carrying up to 150 passengers. These designs are expected to reduce operational costs by 40%, improving route economics and offsetting the higher costs of sustainable technologies.
Innovative aircraft designs are also providing a boost. Jetzero’s blended-wing-body design and Natilus’ similar approach for cargo transport could reduce emissions by 50%, while Hybrid Air Vehicles’ helium-enhanced airships promise a 75% reduction in emissions.
Challenges Ahead: SAF Supply and Battery Technology
Despite its promise, SAF faces significant supply constraints. The United States led global production in 2023 with 79,000 tons and is on track to exceed total global SAF production in 2024. However, meeting 2030 targets requires a steep 97% annual growth rate in production.
Battery energy density remains a critical hurdle for electrifying larger aircraft and extending flight ranges. To effectively decarbonize regional and short-haul flights, battery density must triple. Hydrogen fuel technology also faces adoption barriers, though advances in liquid hydrogen storage could unlock its potential.
The Road to a Greener Aviation Industry
The aviation sector is pursuing multiple avenues to achieve its decarbonization goals, from scaling SAF production to advancing hybrid-electric and hydrogen technologies. While challenges remain, innovations in aircraft design and fuel technology offer a promising path toward a sustainable future for air travel.