Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) is a drop-in jet fuel that closely matches traditional kerosene but is sourced from renewable feedstocks like used cooking oil, animal fat waste, and other biomass. The key characteristics:
Reduces lifecycle greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by up to 80% compared to conventional jet fuel
Certified for commercial aviation, allows up to a 50/50 blend with regular jet fuel without needing aircraft modifications
Compatible with existing engines and fuel infrastructure—no need for new equipment
SAF is a crucial technology for decarbonizing aviation, offering a significant emissions reduction using existing planes and systems.
Does it Matter? Yes and here is an example: #
In June 2024, Amazon announced it had secured more than 9 million liters (approximately 7,500 metric tons) of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) from Neste for use in its Amazon Air cargo operations through the end of 2025. SAF is a drop-in replacement for conventional jet fuel, produced from renewable waste sources like used cooking oil and animal fats, and can reduce lifecycle carbon emissions by up to 80%.
The SAF will be delivered to major U.S. airports, including Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG) and Ontario International Airport (ONT), via pipeline or trucks powered by renewable diesel. It will be blended with conventional jet fuel at up to a 35% ratio, meeting all current aviation standards and requiring no modifications to aircraft or fueling infrastructure.
This initiative supports Amazon’s broader Climate Pledge commitment to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2040. It also reflects the company’s involvement in the Sustainable Aviation Buyers Alliance (SABA) and its backing of a new SAF certificate registry aimed at improving transparency and scaling adoption in the aviation sector.
