IATA has released new estimates for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) production showing that, in 2024, SAF production volumes reached one million tonnes (1,3 billion litres), double the 0,5 million tonnes (600 million litres) produced in 2023.
SAF accounted for 0,3% of global jet fuel production and 11% of global renewable fuel in 2024.
However, this is significantly below previous estimates that projected SAF production in 2024 at 1,5 million tonnes (1,9 billion litres), as key SAF production facilities in the US have pushed back their production ramp-up to the first half of 2025.
In 2025, SAF production is expected to reach 2,1 million tonnes (2,7 billion litres) or 0,7% of total jet fuel production and 13% of global renewable fuel capacity.
“SAF volumes are increasing, but disappointingly slowly. Governments are sending mixed signals to oil companies, which continue to receive subsidies for their exploration and production of fossil oil and gas. And investors in new-generation fuel producers seem to be waiting for guarantees of easy money before going full throttle,” said Willie Walsh, IATA DG.
“With airlines, the core of the value chain, earning just a 3,6% nett margin, profitability expectations for SAF investors need to be slow and steady, not fast and furious. But, make no mistake, airlines are eager to buy SAF and there is money to be made by investors and companies who see the long-term future of decarbonisation. Governments can accelerate progress by winding down fossil fuel production subsidies and replacing them with strategic production incentives and clear policies supporting a future built on renewable energies, including SAF,” Walsh added.
Passenger support
A recent IATA survey revealed significant public support for SAF. Some 86% of travellers agreed that governments should provide production incentives for airlines to be able to access SAF. In addition, 86% agreed that it should be a priority for oil companies to supply SAF to airlines.
