The Biden administration is set to launch a Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Grand Challenge to encourage the production of at least 3bn gallons of SAF per year by 2030.
As well as the challenge, the White House is aiming to reduce aviation emissions by 20% by 2030. The US government is allocating $4.3bn in new and ongoing funding that supports SAF projects and fuel production, efforts to improve air traffic, airport efficiency and develop new technologies.
The White House also said it plans to release a comprehensive aviation climate action plan in the coming months.
“Today, aviation … represents 11% of US transportation-related emissions. Without increased action, aviation’s share of emissions is likely to increase as more people and goods fly,” said the White House in a statement last/this week. “For today’s long-distance travel, we need bold partnerships to spur the deployment of billions of gallons of SAFs quickly.”
NBAA president, Ed Bolen welcomed the plans: “The business aviation community has long been focused on flying safely, securely, and sustainably. Increasing SAF production is a key part of our sustainability agenda and we will continue to promote proposals to increase the availability of these fuels as quickly as possible.”
National Air Transportation Association (NATA) president, Tim Obitts, agreed, noting that business aviation has long advocated SAF adoption.“The coordination between the administration, agencies, and industry is critical to more expeditiously achieve our shared mission for a cleaner future.”
