How Airlines Can Transition to Sustainable Aviation Fuel: A Practical Guide

How Airlines Can Transition to Sustainable Aviation Fuel: A Practical Guide

As the aviation industry strives to reduce its carbon footprint, sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) has emerged as the most viable solution for immediate emissions reductions. People might ask what is sustainable aviation fuel?  SAF enables airlines to maintain their existing fleets while significantly decreasing greenhouse gas emissions. For airlines looking to make this transition, New Rise Renewables is here to help, offering SAF produced from non-food stock crops like corn oil and soybean oil using advanced hydrotreating technology. Here’s a practical guide to help airlines navigate the switch to non-oil seed crop sustainable aviation fuel.

  1. Understanding the Benefits of SAF

Before transitioning, it’s important to recognize the value SAF brings to the aviation industry:

    • Reduced Emissions: SAF can lower lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80% compared to conventional jet fuel.
    • Compatibility: SAF can be blended with existing jet fuel without requiring engine or infrastructure modifications.
    • Future-Proofing: Governments and consumers are pushing for greener travel. SAF adoption positions airlines as sustainability leaders in the industry.
  1. Evaluate Fuel Sources

Not all SAF is created equal. Airlines should prioritize SAF producers that align with sustainability goals:

    • Non-Food Stock Crops: SAF derived from non-food resources, such as the corn oil and soybean oil used by New Rise Renewables, avoids competing with food supply and ensures long-term feedstock availability.
    • Lifecycle Emissions: Look for SAF producers that use renewable feedstocks and processes that minimize environmental impact.

 

New Rise Renewables focuses on sustainability at every stage, ensuring our SAF contributes meaningfully to reducing aviation’s carbon footprint.

  1. Establish Partnerships

Building strong partnerships with SAF suppliers is essential for a successful transition. Airlines should:

    • Collaborate Early: Partnering with producers like New Rise Renewables ensures a steady SAF supply while aligning with your operational needs.
    • Negotiate Long-Term Agreements: Secure stable pricing and availability through long-term contracts, which also help SAF producers scale operations.
  1. Incorporate Blending Strategies

SAF can be blended with conventional jet fuel in ratios up to 50%, making it a flexible option for airlines:

    • Start Small: Begin with pilot programs or specific routes to test SAF performance and establish logistics.
    • Scale Gradually: Increase the blending percentage over time as supply grows and costs decrease.

 

By adopting a phased approach, airlines can integrate SAF into their operations seamlessly.

  1. Leverage Government Incentives

Governments worldwide are supporting SAF adoption through policies and incentives:

    • Tax Credits: Programs like the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act offer credits for using SAF with verified emissions reductions.
    • Blending Mandates: Many regions are introducing SAF blending requirements, ensuring airlines benefit from early adoption.
    • Subsidies: Funding for SAF-related infrastructure can offset transition costs.

 

New Rise Renewables’ SAF production process meets these requirements, helping airlines qualify for available incentives.

  1. Develop a Sustainability Plan

Transitioning to SAF is part of a broader commitment to sustainability. Airlines should:

    • Set Emissions Goals: Define clear, measurable targets for reducing carbon emissions.
    • Report Progress: Regularly share updates with stakeholders, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability.
    • Engage Customers: Educate passengers about SAF and its role in creating greener air travel.
  1. Optimize Logistics

Switching to SAF requires adjustments in fuel supply chains:

    • Fuel Delivery: Work with SAF producers to ensure efficient delivery to key hubs.
    • Storage and Handling: Update infrastructure to accommodate SAF blends, if necessary.
    • Quality Assurance: Verify that SAF meets industry standards for performance and safety.

 

At New Rise Renewables, we collaborate closely with fuel suppliers to ensure smooth integration into their existing logistics.

  1. Embrace Innovation

The SAF market is evolving rapidly, with advancements in feedstocks and technologies:

    • Hydrotreating Technology: The hydrotreating process used by New Rise Renewables produces SAF with reliable performance and reduced environmental impact.
    • Research and Development: Stay informed about innovations that could lower costs or improve scalability.

Conclusion

Transitioning to sustainable aviation fuel is both a challenge and an opportunity for airlines. By choosing a trusted partner like New Rise Renewables, which uses non-food stock crops and hydrotreating technology, airlines can make the switch effectively and sustainably. Together, we can create a cleaner, greener future for aviation.

Ready to make the transition? Contact New Rise Renewables @ info@newriserenew.com to learn how we can support your SAF journey.