Airlines operating in Spain are facing €234.2m in surcharges in 2025 due to the mandatory requirement to use 2pc sustainable aviation fuel as a proportion of overall consumption, under EU regulations.
Iberia, Ryanair, Vueling, and Air Europa absorb the extra costs, with estimates showing a 0.50 euro rise per ticket on average. The fuel, derived from waste oils and agricultural residues, aims to cut carbon emissions by 70pc compared to jet fuel.
Industry groups say production is insufficient to meet demand and lobby for subsidies to offset the burden, while producers like Repsol ramp up output to 500,000 tonnes annually. Compliance starts January 1, with penalties up to €100,000 per non-compliant flight.
