Airbus accelerates SAF adoption with book and claim approach

Global aerospace giant Airbus unveiled a book and claim mechanism designed to dramatically increase the adoption of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) worldwide.

The initiative aims to overcome critical barriers in SAF accessibility and distribution.

Seven key industry players have already signalled their support, including SMBC Aviation Capital, AerCap, Comlux, Luxaviation, Novespace, Rive Private Investment and SAF Aerogroup.

“Supporting the SAF Book and Claim mechanism is an immediate solution contributing to the emergence and scale-up of the global SAF market,” said Julien Manhes, Airbus head of SAF and carbon dioxide removals. “For many smaller operators, accessing SAF can be challenging. Through this initiative, Airbus can simplify and derisk the process for operators and SAF suppliers.”

The approach allows airlines and operators to book a certain amount of SAF and claim corresponding emission reductions, even when the fuel is used at a different location.

Airbus will act as a facilitator, purchasing SAF certificates through the Roundtable on Sustainable Biomaterials (RSB) and managing their sustainability attributes. The company will then resell these certificates to interested customers, primarily aircraft and helicopter operators.

A pilot programme throughout 2025 will test the mechanism’s capacity and market interest. By financially securing SAF certificates upfront and facilitating their distribution, Airbus hopes to demonstrate the reliability and potential of the book and claim approach in both voluntary and regulatory markets.