The International Air Transport Association (IATA) estimates that Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) production reached 1m tonnes in 2024, doubling the output from 2023, although this is below previous projections of 1.5m tonnes.
At a Global Media day in Geneva, IATA CEO, the Glasnevin born Willie Walsh, called for increased public policy support and investment in renewable fuels to meet the industry’s decarbonization goals, highlighting that the airline sector’s transition is part of a broader global energy transition.
Proposed strategies to accelerate SAF production include expanding co-processing capabilities at existing refineries, diversifying production methods to reduce reliance on the HEFA method, and creating a global accounting framework for SAF transactions.
A recent IATA survey indicates strong public support for governmental production incentives, with 86pc of travelers favoring measures to facilitate airlines’ access to SAF, demonstrating widespread interest in sustainable aviation initiatives.
