Disappointing SAF production puts pressure on zero emissions targets, IATA says
In the UK, Air Cargo News reported that IATA said that this year SAF production is expected to reach around 2.4m tons, up 25% from 2025 levels.
However, the growth rate is down from the 90% increase registered in 2025 and the total amount produced represents “just” 0.8% of aviation fuel use. In 2025, SAF accounted for 0.6% of jet fuel, according to the report.
IATA director general Willie Walsh said the slow progress of SAF production would put pressure on airlines’ ability to meet the 2050 net zero emissions target that has been set for the industry.
To achieve the target, IATA believes 65% of jet fuel will need to be SAF by 2050.
“It looks to be another disappointing year for SAF production,” said Walsh. “Five years after committing to achieve net zero by 2050, SAF production will only account for 0.8% of airline fuel use this year,” he said.
“The current energy shock should add even more urgency to the development of renewables, including SAF. But we have yet to see either the energy shock, the need to develop energy independence and jobs, or the urgency to mitigate climate change materialize in the incentives needed to create a viable SAF market,” he added.
Category: SAF
