The global aviation industry is facing significant challenges in meeting its ambitious targets for the production and use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), according to Willie Walsh, the head of the International Air Transport Association (IATA). Speaking at an IATA media day in Geneva on Tuesday, Walsh expressed concern over the slow progress as the industry aims for net-zero emissions by 2050.
“We’re not making as much progress as we’d hoped for, and we’re certainly not making as much progress as we need,” Walsh stated. He highlighted that SAF currently accounts for only around 0.3% of the world’s jet fuel usage, a figure projected to reach just 0.7% by 2025, based on IATA data.
An IATA study presented revealed that global production of green jet fuel in 2024 is expected to be only 1 metric ton, falling short of last year’s projection of 1.5 metric tons. Walsh pointed to a lack of biorefineries under construction as a significant barrier, noting that many facilities require extensive capital expenditure.
In response to these challenges, IATA announced plans to launch a new project next year aimed at better tracking global SAF initiatives. The goal is to provide more transparency and encourage progress within the sector.
Walsh also addressed regional disparities in supporting SAF production, citing that Europe is lagging behind the United States in crafting incentives to boost investment in production facilities. The 2022 U.S. Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), containing substantial subsidies for clean energy, was highlighted as a positive example.
However, uncertainty looms with the upcoming administration shift to President-elect Donald Trump. “It is unclear what the incoming administration will do regarding the IRA and how it will impact ongoing SAF production,” Walsh remarked. He noted that there was considerable progress during the first Trump administration in this area, suggesting a potential for continued advancement.
The aviation industry’s commitment to sustainability is at a critical juncture, and Walsh’s comments underscore the urgent need for collective action. Stakeholders across the globe, including airlines, governments, and investors, are being called upon to intensify efforts to develop and implement sustainable fuel solutions to meet environmental goals.
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Global airlines could miss sustainable fuel targets, says IATA head
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