Emirates reaffirms its commitment to promoting sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) by launching another successful initiative aimed at integrating SAF into regular commercial operations. Commencing this month, Schiphol Airport’s fueling system will incorporate SAF throughout 2024.
Adhering to existing regulations, the fuel will be a blend of conventional fuel and alternative SAF, totaling up to 700,000 gallons of neat SAF. This initiative stems from Emirates’ partnership with Neste, one of the leading SAF producers globally. Established officially in 2023, this collaboration represents one of the largest SAF procurements in terms of volume to date.
Emirates’ adoption of alternative fuel isn’t confined to Schiphol Airport; it’s a part of a broader strategy. Having conducted its inaugural flight powered by blended SAF in Chicago back in 2017, Emirates now utilizes this eco-friendly jet fuel for flights departing from various locations, including Paris, Oslo, and Dubai.
In November 2023, Emirates made history as one of its aircraft, an Airbus A380, became the largest airliner to fly using 100% SAF. This milestone flight underscores Emirates’ commitment to pushing the boundaries of sustainable aviation and aligning with evolving legislative frameworks.
Preceding its departure from Dubai International Airport (DXB), rigorous testing was conducted on the aircraft, including its Engine Alliance GP7200 engine and Pratt & Whitney PW980 auxiliary power unit (APU).
While Emirates continues to lead in SAF adoption, it also endeavors to support the development of a domestic SAF industry in the UAE. Similar to efforts in Australia, the UAE aims to become a regional hub for sustainable fuel production, targeting a production capacity of up to 700 million liters of SAF by the end of the decade.
For major operators like Emirates, ensuring a reliable and cost-effective supply of green jet fuel is crucial for expanding the usage of blended SAF. Currently, the high cost and limited availability of alternative fuel pose challenges, highlighting the importance of initiatives like those undertaken by Emirates.
Emirates is poised to expand its sustainable fuel project to Singapore Changi Airport, further solidifying its commitment to environmental sustainability and innovation in commercial aviation.
