The UK government has unveiled its strategy to promote sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), aiming to ensure that by 2030, ten percent of jet fuel used in flights departing from the country originates from sustainable sources. This initiative comes with a built-in review mechanism to mitigate potential price increases and minimise the impact on airfares, addressing concerns raised by airlines regarding the limited availability and high costs associated with SAF.
Pending parliamentary approval, this mandate is scheduled to take effect in January 2025, projected to catalyze a SAF industry expected to contribute over £1.8 billion to the UK economy and generate approximately 10,000 jobs. The government’s objectives entail supplying airlines with around 1.2 million tonnes of SAF annually.
Assuming an adequate supply of SAF, the government reassures that any fare adjustments resulting from its adoption would remain within the realm of typical price fluctuations witnessed annually, with contingency plans in place to prevent significant fare hikes. Additionally, the government has initiated a consultation on a SAF revenue certainty scheme, aiming to provide assurance to both current and prospective SAF producers and investors, thereby sustaining momentum in the industry.
Transport Secretary Mark Harper emphasised the significance of these measures in bolstering the economy, affirming that they offer reassurance to the aviation sector and the SAF industry, enabling them to continue creating employment opportunities while ensuring passengers retain the freedom to travel sustainably.
Airlines UK CEO Tim Alderslade expressed support for the SAF mandate as a pivotal stride towards achieving net-zero emissions, emphasizing the importance of implementing measures to incentivize production and alleviate the cost burden, akin to practices observed in the EU and US.
However, Aviation Environment Federation policy director Cait Hewitt cautioned that while the mandate signifies progress in acknowledging the aviation emissions challenge, it does not guarantee emissions reduction. She emphasized the necessity of curbing flying activity to effectively mitigate environmental impact, advocating for policies that hold airlines accountable for emissions-related costs rather than burdening the public.
In collaboration with Transport and Environment UK and Green Alliance, the organisation outlined concerns regarding the efficacy of SAF as a means to address aviation’s environmental footprint, underscoring the need for comprehensive strategies to tackle emissions.
