Aviation’s Path to Net-Zero by 2050: The Crucial Role of SAF Technology, According to IATA Study
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has recently published a pioneering study. It reveals that there is enough sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) feedstock to enable airlines to achieve net-zero CO2 emissions by 2050. However, the study identifies slow technology rollout, rather than feedstock availability, as the main obstacle.
“We need shovels in the ground now,”
– Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General
The research indicates that while sustainable feedstocks are plentiful, transforming them into SAF production demands a significant acceleration in technology deployment and infrastructure investment. To meet net-zero goals, the aviation industry requires approximately 500 million tonnes of SAF annually by 2050.
The study emphasizes that the responsibility of turning this potential into reality lies with policymakers and energy sector leaders. With only 25 years left to scale up production facilities worldwide, the urgency is clear.