Air Canada Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) takes centre stage as the airline announces a groundbreaking purchase of 77.6 million litres of Neste MY Sustainable Aviation Fuel. This historic agreement aligns with aviation’s goal to use SAF for 1% of its jet fuel needs by 2025.
Michael Rousseau, CEO of Air Canada, explained that the airline views it as a crucial component of its environmental strategy. He also emphasized the need for federal and provincial government support to scale SAF production within Canada.
Air Canada Sustainable Aviation Fuel
Neste’s sustainable aviation fuel for Air Canada will reduce greenhouse gas emissions significantly compared to conventional jet fuel. This purchase represents the fuel needed for about 1,197 Vancouver-Montreal round-trip flights using a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, assuming a 50% SAF blend.
Carl Nyberg, Executive Vice President at Neste, highlighted the importance of the partnership. That programme highlights the airline’s role in driving aviation toward a greener future. He noted that the collaboration represents a significant step in advancing the use of sustainable aviation fuel on a global scale.
Challenges and Future in Canada
Despite progress, global SAF availability remains limited. Even with production tripling in 2024, SAF would only meet 0.53% of aviation’s fuel needs, according to IATA. However, the programme aims to overcome these challenges. By leveraging Canada’s abundant resources and innovative technologies, the airline is advocating for local production to support sustainability and economic growth.
In addition, aviation will continue its journey toward net-zero emissions by 2050. Programmes like this one and the Leave Less Travel initiative enable corporate customers to offset emissions by supporting SAF or purchasing carbon offsets.
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