‘Half of global airlines planning to source SAF by 2026’

Nearly half of airlines are planning to source SAF suppliers for select locations by 2026, indicating a positive outlook for the use of SAF, showed a survey carried out by SITA – specialist in air transport communications and IT.

The survey shared questionnaires with executives at 292 passenger carriers, including low-cost operators, together with carriers representing important players in the regional and leisure sectors. In addition, 383 of world’s airports also participated in the survey.

“SAF is a major topic among airlines, the subject of significant investment over the coming three years. Despite relatively low adoption so far, by 2026 half of airlines are planning to source SAF suppliers for select locations, indicating a positive outlook for the use of SAF (83% adoption by 2026),” said the report.

It further added that half of airlines plan to start using the SAF book and claim system by 2026, raising adoption to 78%.

The report noted that more than half of airlines (54%) have implemented some form of passenger paid offset or SAF contribution scheme with a wide regional spread – 92% of European airlines have done so, leading the initiatives’ implementation at regional level.

Commenting on the SAF refuelling at airports, the repost said that it is an area with much potential growth for the future. Only 13% of airports have currently implemented SAF refuelling capabilities, but 42% plan to do so in the coming three years, and this might increase further as further industry emissions regulations come into place.

At a regional level, while the Americas region’s airports are currently at 0% implementation of SAF refuelling, a full 49% intend to adopt this by 2026.