Amadeus invests in synthetic SAF feedstock producer Caphenia

Software specialist Amadeus has acquired a minority stake in German synthesis gas producer, Caphenia for an undisclosed fee. Caphenia produces a synthesis gas from biogas (such as methane), CO2, water and electricity which can then be used to produce synthetic Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) and other products.

Caphenia claims to have developed a more affordable and scalable production method for SAF, using one-sixth of the electricity needed for other SAF production methods. Although still in development, the company has secured patent protection for its Power-and-Biogas-to-Liquid (PBtL) process, with a total of 203 granted patents.

The firm plans to begin production next year and is forecasting to produce 10m litres of SAF by 2027. This is set to rise to more than 100m litres by 2030 and over 1bn litres before 2035.

“We have an ambition to offer large scale production by 2028, aiming to fill the gap between anticipated SAF demand and current supply,” said Mark Misselhorn, CEO, Caphenia. “The technology of cost-effective, producible SAF means the greatest potential for CO2 savings and an important element that, in combination with others, may help in meeting net zero targets.” 

It is the first time Amadeus, the Spanish IT service provider for the tourism and travel industry, has invested outside its sector.  The decision is part of its commitment to supporting sustainable travel investment and will offer it enhanced visibility into the challenges of the SAF sector, according to the company.

Suzanna Chiu, head, Ventures, Amadeus said the deal represents a step forward in the company’s sustainability strategy, using companies in the SAF supply chain to gain a broader perspective of the challenges the industry faces.

“At Amadeus, we are committed to supporting the move to sustainable travel,” said Chiu. “We monitor industry trends and developments to determine the most effective ways we can fulfil this ambition and are delighted to act today with the investment in an innovative SAF company.”