From today, flights departing UK airports are subject to a new legal requirement mandating the use of lower-carbon jet fuel. The introduction of the sustainable aviation fuel (Saf) mandate marks a pivotal step in the UK’s efforts to decarbonise the aviation sector.
By 2025, Saf must constitute at least 2% of all jet fuel used in flights departing from UK airports, with the percentage set to increase annually. The target will rise to 10% by 2030 and 22% by 2040. The Department for Transport (DfT) has described these targets as “ambitious but achievable.”
Compliance and penalties
Under the mandate, aviation fuel suppliers must meet these Saf requirements or face consequences. Suppliers unable to provide the necessary Saf volumes have two options: purchase certificates from others exceeding the mandate or pay the Government £4.70 per litre below the required threshold. Failure to comply may result in civil penalties.
The mandate includes flexibility to account for current limitations in Saf production and aims to encourage innovation while enforcing adherence.
Importance of sustainable aviation fuel
Saf is regarded as essential to reducing carbon emissions in the aviation industry, which accounts for a significant share of global greenhouse gas emissions. Unlike conventional jet fuel, which is derived from fossil fuels, Saf is produced from sustainable sources such as agricultural waste and used cooking oil.
Production of Saf involves around 70% less carbon compared to traditional jet fuel. Saf can also be blended with conventional kerosene at up to 50%, requiring no modifications to existing aircraft engines.
However, Saf remains significantly more expensive than conventional jet fuel. It is anticipated that increased production will lead to lower costs over time.
Industry and government support
Aviation Minister Mike Kane welcomed the introduction of the mandate, emphasising its importance for greener travel. “From this moment on, aviation will be a greener, more sustainable form of travel. Today marks a significant milestone for the UK Saf industry,” he said.
Kane highlighted the economic benefits of Saf production, noting that thousands of jobs are expected to be supported by the growing Saf industry. “The mandate will help deliver our Plan for Change, helping to grow the economy and giving people the freedom to travel in a more sustainable way,” he added.
Tim Alderslade, chief executive of Airlines UK, echoed the minister’s sentiments, calling the Saf mandate a “powerful and practical tool” for reducing aviation’s carbon footprint. He urged the Government to focus on expanding eligible feedstocks and providing incentives to lower production costs, which he described as “critical” for achieving compliance.
More Read
Challenges and future investments
One of the primary challenges is the current cost disparity between Saf and conventional jet fuel. To address this, the Government has pledged to introduce a revenue certainty mechanism aimed at attracting investment in new Saf production plants in the UK. This initiative is expected to stimulate the market, driving innovation and lowering costs.
Global demand for Saf is anticipated to rise sharply as countries adopt similar mandates to meet international climate commitments. Industry experts have stressed the importance of ensuring the UK maintains a competitive edge in Saf production.
A step towards net zero
The Saf mandate is part of the UK’s broader commitment to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050. While aviation is one of the hardest sectors to decarbonise due to technological and logistical challenges, Saf represents a key transitional solution.
As the industry adapts to this new regulatory framework, the mandate is expected to act as both a catalyst for reducing emissions and a driver of economic growth through innovation in sustainable fuel technologies.
The introduction of the Saf mandate reflects the UK’s commitment to balancing environmental goals with economic development, positioning the nation as a leader in the transition to greener aviation.
