GBTA research shows business travel SAF use rises while costs remain high.

The GBTA Foundation recently released new research. It shows a fast rise in Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) buying. This trend is strong among global travel programs. Many companies now have Net Zero commitments. They want to lower their carbon footprint.

However, the report also notes big challenges. These "headwinds" make it hard to grow. Many firms struggle with accounting standards. They are also worried about high costs. Internal readiness is another major barrier for many.

The Drive for Net Zero

Corporate travel is changing fast. Many businesses now prioritize the environment. According to IATA, SAF is key to reaching goals. It can reduce life-cycle emissions significantly. This makes it a top choice for firms.

The GBTA Foundation’s Acceleration Challenge tracks this. It found that more travel managers buy SAF. They use "book and claim" systems. This allows them to claim the benefits. They do this even if the fuel is elsewhere.

Barriers to Wider Adoption

Despite the growth, problems remain. Cost sensitivity is a huge factor. SAF is much more expensive than regular fuel. This puts pressure on travel budgets. Many companies find it hard to justify prices.

Another issue is internal readiness. Some firms do not have the right tools. They cannot track their SAF use easily. This makes it hard to report progress. Clear accounting standards are still missing in many areas.

Regulatory and Industry Support

Global groups are trying to help. The ICAO is working on global frameworks. These will help standardize how we use SAF. Better rules could lead to lower prices. It would also make reporting much easier.

Manufacturers like Airbus are also helping. They are making planes for 100% SAF. This gives airlines more confidence to buy. It also helps the whole industry move forward.

What This Means for Aviation

The demand for SAF is clearly there. Business travelers want cleaner options. But the industry must solve the cost issue. Without lower prices, growth may stall.

Aviation stakeholders must work together. This includes airlines, airports, and fuel makers. They need to create a stable market. Only then can SAF truly take flight.

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