Sustainable Aviation: The Fuels of the Future

Every morning when we look up at the sky, its bright blue and clean expanse fills us with peace. Often, it inspires us to daydream—sometimes about being somewhere else, sometimes about traveling on an airplane. I believe there’s hardly anyone who doesn’t enjoy traveling and discovering new places. Many of us prefer airlines for travel due to their comfort, accessibility, reliability, and speed.

This growing demand encourages airlines to expand their fleets. But what about the sky? Does it expand along with these fleets?

The increase in the number of aircraft also means more exhaust gases being released into the atmosphere. Doesn’t this contribute to the pollution of our skies?

We will explore Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), a solution developed to address these issues in the aviation sector, which utilizes the skies more than any other industry in this post.

The aviation industry is taking significant steps toward a cleaner future every day. But is it possible to achieve the net-zero emissions target by 2050? What’s the path to this goal? What is SAF, and why is it so important?

Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) is an innovative and environmentally friendly fuel developed as an alternative to conventional fossil fuels. The most notable feature of SAF is that it is produced from renewable resources such as vegetable oils, waste oils, and agricultural residues. Thanks to these characteristics, SAF has the potential to reduce carbon emissions by up to 80% over its lifecycle. Additionally, SAF is not just environmentally friendly—it is also compatible with the existing infrastructure of the aviation sector. This means it can be used without requiring significant modifications to aircraft engines or fuel systems.

However, the situation isn’t as simple as it seems. Currently, global SAF production meets only 0.1% of the aviation sector’s total fuel demand. Moreover, its cost is two to five times higher than that of traditional jet fuel, creating significant financial pressure on airlines. The limited number of facilities capable of producing SAF also hampers its widespread adoption.

Despite these challenges, some airlines are taking a leading role. For instance, United Airlines conducted a test flight in 2021 powered entirely by SAF. This step wasn’t just a technological demonstration; it also showcased the aviation industry’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions. Similarly, companies like KLM and Lufthansa have implemented long-term plans for SAF usage.

What about air taxis? These small and agile vehicles, designed for shorter flights, could also play a role in SAF adoption. Interestingly, SAF usage in the air taxi segment is not yet widespread. Instead, electric and hybrid technologies are taking center stage in this field. Companies developing fully electric aircraft are exploring ways to eliminate carbon emissions for short distances. Vehicles capable of vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL), developed by companies like Volocopter, are making revolutionary strides in sustainability for the air taxi sector.

Looking to the future, it’s clear that SAF will play a significant role in transforming the aviation industry. Initiatives such as the European Union’s "Fit for 55" package aim to encourage SAF production and reduce carbon emissions. However, achieving these goals will require not only technological innovation but also global collaboration and economic sustainability.

While SAF is poised to hold a vital place among future aviation fuels, it is not a standalone solution. Combined with groundbreaking technologies such as hydrogen, electric airplanes, and hybrid systems, it will contribute to a profound transformation of the sector. Today’s investments and innovations are paving the way for a more sustainable future—not just for aviation but for the entire world. The dreams we once had of a cleaner sky are now becoming a reality. Our aspirations are evolving toward a future free from exhaust emissions.