EASA Greenlights New Sustainable Aviation Fuel Standard: What Does It Mean for European Airlines?

The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has approved a new Sustainable Aviation Fuel standard. This move is a major step in accelerating SAF adoption across the continent. The new framework aims to boost the supply and use of jet fuel alternatives. It sets clear rules for SAF production and usage by airlines operating in Europe. This regulatory action is central to aviation decarbonization efforts.

The Regulatory Framework

The EASA SAF approval is tied to the broader ReFuelEU Aviation Regulation. This regulation is a key part of the EU’s ‘Fit for 55’ climate package. It sets mandatory minimum blending targets for fuel suppliers at EU airports. The goal is to significantly increase the use of sustainable fuels.

• The minimum mandate starts at 2% in 2025.
• This requirement escalates to 6% by 2030.
• The long-term target is a 70% SAF share by 2050.

EASA plays a critical role in monitoring compliance and reporting on market readiness. The agency’s annual reports track the progress of European airlines operations toward these mandates. Data from 2024 showed SAF accounted for 0.6% of all aviation fuel supplied in the EU.

Criteria for SAF Production and Usage

The new standard outlines specific criteria for eligible fuels. All Sustainable Aviation Fuel must comply with the EU’s Renewable Energy Directive (RED) criteria. This ensures the fuels achieve substantial reducing carbon emissions over their lifecycle. The regulation strictly excludes fuels from food and feed crops.

EASA also manages the EU SAF Clearing House. This initiative helps streamline the technical approval of new SAF pathways. It supports fuel producers in meeting the strict certification criteria required for use in aircraft like those made by Boeing.

Impact on European Airlines Operations

The new standard and mandates create both opportunities and challenges for carriers. Airlines must now secure long-term supply agreements to meet the blending requirements. This is vital for maintaining European airlines operations and avoiding penalties.

The primary challenge is cost. SAF remains significantly more expensive than conventional jet fuel. In 2024, the average price of SAF was nearly three times higher. This cost pressure is passed through the supply chain. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) stresses the need for government support. They argue this support is necessary to close the price gap and scale production.

Some carriers are already leading the way. The International Airlines Group (IAG) achieved an average SAF blend of about 3.9% in 2024. Air France-KLM followed closely with nearly 2.5%. However, the market remains concentrated. Only a few airports and suppliers currently account for the vast majority of SAF volume.

Focus on Synthetic Aviation Fuels

The regulation includes a sub-mandate for synthetic aviation fuels (e-fuels or Power-to-Liquid). This segment must reach 0.7% by 2030 and 35% by 2050. This specific target encourages investment in advanced technologies. EASA warns that rapid action is needed to meet this synthetic fuel sub-target.

This development is crucial for the future of commercial aviation news and sustainability. It solidifies Europe’s position as a global leader in setting environmental standards. For more updates on this and other aviation topics, visit commercial aviation news.

Key Takeaways:

• The EASA-backed ReFuelEU Aviation Regulation mandates a 2% minimum SAF blend in 2025, rising to 6% by 2030.
• SAF must meet strict sustainability criteria from the Renewable Energy Directive (RED) to be compliant.
• The biggest challenge is the high cost of SAF, which was nearly three times that of jet fuel in 2024.
• EASA is facilitating new SAF production and usage pathways via the EU SAF Clearing House.