European Airlines Demand Fuel Blending Target Reforms

European airline CEOs are appealing for industry-wide support to meet upcoming mandates for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). The European Union’s ReFuelEU Aviation regulation, which comes into effect in 2025, requires fuel suppliers to blend increasing percentages of SAF with conventional jet fuel.

The CEOs expressed concerns that the current supply of SAF is insufficient to meet the mandated blending targets. They are urging governments and industry stakeholders to collaborate to accelerate the production and availability of SAF, which is seen as crucial for decarbonizing air travel. Without adequate SAF supply, airlines face the risk of non-compliance with the regulations.

The ReFuelEU Aviation regulation aims to drive the uptake of SAF by gradually increasing the minimum share of SAF that must be supplied to aircraft at EU airports. This initiative is part of broader European efforts to achieve climate neutrality by 2050.

Airline leaders are highlighting the need for investment in SAF production capacity and the development of robust supply chains. They believe that a coordinated approach involving airlines, fuel producers, policymakers, and technology providers is essential to overcome the current supply challenges and ensure a smooth transition to lower-emission aviation fuels. The success of these mandates is seen as vital for the long-term sustainability of the European aviation sector.

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