How Will ICAO's New Global Standard Accelerate Sustainable Aviation Fuel?

The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has adopted a new ICAO global standard for certifying Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). This move is a major step for global SAF adoption and reduce aviation's carbon footprint. The standard provides a globally consistent framework. It aims to ensure the environmental integrity of all SAF used in international flights. This action reinforces ICAO’s commitment to its long-term goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

The ICAO Global Framework

The new standard is integrated within the ICAO Global Framework for SAF. This framework also covers Lower Carbon Aviation Fuels (LCAF) and other cleaner energies. Member States have agreed on a collective global aspirational Vision. This Vision seeks a 5% reduction in the carbon intensity of aviation fuel by 2030. This goal is crucial for Aviation decarbonization efforts worldwide.

CORSIA and Certification

The standard is formally known as the CORSIA sustainability criteria. CORSIA stands for the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation. Airlines can use certified SAF to lower their offsetting requirements under the CORSia program.

To achieve Sustainable Aviation Fuel certification, a fuel must meet strict criteria. It must be certified by an ICAO-approved Sustainability Certification Scheme (SCS). Currently, the two recognized schemes are ISCC and RSB. These schemes ensure SAF supply chain integrity from feedstock to aircraft.

Key Certification Criteria

• Minimum Reduction: SAF must achieve a minimum 10% net greenhouse gas emissions reduction over its life cycle. This is compared to conventional jet fuel.
• Typical Performance: Most SAF pathways offer a much greater reduction. They typically reduce CO2 emissions by 70% to 80%.
• Feedstock Integrity: The criteria also cover environmental and social themes. These include land use, water, and human rights.

Industry Challenges and Outlook

The adoption of this ICAO global standard is a positive signal to the market. It provides regulatory certainty for investors and producers. However, significant challenges remain for the international aviation organization and its members.

SAF production volumes are still very low. Current projections suggest SAF's market share will remain below the 1% threshold in 2026. This slow deployment cannot keep pace with the rising demand for fossil jet fuel.

Cost is a major barrier to global SAF adoption. SAF is currently three to ten times more expensive than traditional jet fuel. This cost premium puts financial pressure on airlines and manufacturers like Airbus. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) continues to advocate for government support. Policy support is needed to scale production and lower prices.

This new global standard creates a level playing field. It is a necessary foundation for future growth. It helps the industry transition from voluntary use to mandatory blending requirements. Stay informed on this and other industry developments by reading the latest commercial aviation news at flying.flights.

• The international aviation organization is focused on execution. They must turn ambitious pledges into measurable climate progress.