How Condor Is Funding Sustainable Aviation Fuel With Customer Round-Ups

German leisure airline Condor is advancing its Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) strategy.

The airline is focusing on two main areas. It is investing in future Power-to-Liquid SAF technology. It also created a program for passengers to contribute directly to fuel purchases.

Investing in Future e-SAF Production

Condor has secured a long-term Caphenia partnership. This agreement is an off-take deal for future e-SAF production. The fuel is a synthetic, power-based alternative. Caphenia uses a Power-and-Biogas-to-Liquid (PBtL) reactor. This process converts biomethane, CO2, water, and electricity into syngas. The final product is a renewable fuel. Caphenia claims this technology can reduce CO2 emissions by up to 92 percent compared to fossil jet fuel.

Condor is supporting the process development. The off-take agreement is expected to begin in 2027. This investment addresses a key industry challenge. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) forecasts a significant SAF production shortfall by 2050.

The Global SAF Challenge

The aviation industry has a goal of net-zero carbon emissions 2050. To meet this, airlines will need 500 million tonnes (Mt) of SAF annually. However, global SAF production is still very low. Production is expected to reach only 1.9 Mt in 2025. This represents just 0.6% of total global jet fuel use. The cost remains a major barrier. SAF is currently about three times the price of conventional jet fuel.

Customer Flight Round Up Initiative

Condor launched its customer flight round up program, "Round up for the future," in mid-2025. This initiative allows passengers to contribute to Sustainable Aviation Fuel purchases. Customers can voluntarily round up their flight price. Options include rounding up to the nearest €10, €20, €50, or €100.

One hundred percent of the rounded-up amount is invested in additional SAF. This purchase is made beyond the legally prescribed minimum. The program is a direct response to customer demand. It offers an accessible way to support aviation decarbonization efforts.

Meeting Regulatory and Fleet Goals

Condor’s actions align with European regulatory targets. The ReFuelEU Aviation mandate requires fuel suppliers to blend a minimum of 2% SAF in 2025. This mandate will increase to 6% by 2030 and 70% by 2050. The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) is monitoring this progress.

The airline is also modernizing its fleet. Condor operates the fuel-efficient Airbus A330neo fleet on its long-haul routes. This new aircraft reduces kerosene consumption. It cuts CO2 emissions by up to 20 percent. Condor's multi-pronged approach tackles both fleet efficiency and fuel supply. This dual strategy is crucial for meeting the industry’s ambitious climate goals. For more updates on commercial aviation news, visit flying.flights.