Government and industry officials highlight the potential of biofuel-based sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), derived from sources like used cooking oil or wood chips, to reduce aviation emissions by up to 80%. However, industry leaders stress that Europe must invest more in synthetic aviation fuels to achieve its net-zero targets by 2050, as biofuels alone may not suffice. The shortage of organic feedstocks necessitates investment in pricier synthetic fuels made from hydrogen or carbon capture, known as e-SAFs. These fuels are crucial for meeting future blending mandates and transitioning all aircraft to SAF by 2050, according to Uwe Gaudig of Germany's Griesemann group.

Currently, biofuel-based SAF constitutes just 0.2% of global jet fuel use due to its higher cost compared to traditional jet fuel. Synthetic SAF, even more expensive, faces similar challenges. The European Union offers subsidies for e-SAF, but industry leaders emphasise the need for increased government funding to enhance infrastructure and production stability. Thorsten Herdan from SAF maker HIF stresses the importance of regulatory stability and guarantees to foster industry growth in Europe. Meanwhile, Airbus' Julie Kitcher suggests expanding renewable electricity and electrolysers to lower production costs.

Despite potential, Marte van der Graaf of Transport and Environment warns that without sufficient investment, few e-SAF projects in Europe may secure funding by 2028, hindering the sector's growth. (Source: ET Infra)