In the pursuit of a sustainable future, the aviation industry is increasingly embracing Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), a transformative alternative that significantly reduces carbon emissions. SAF is produced from renewable resources, including waste oils and agricultural residues, and can reduce emissions by up to 80% over its lifecycle compared to traditional jet fuel.
A notable collaboration in this endeavor involves Viva Energy and Virgin Australia, which have partnered to supply SAF for flights from Proserpine, Queensland, between March and July 2025. The SAF blend provided consists of Jet A1 fuel mixed with a 30-40% synthetic component derived from waste and residues, meeting all necessary regulatory and safety requirements to ensure seamless integration with existing operations.
This partnership aims to make SAF more affordable and accessible, highlighting its potential for long-term carbon reduction strategies in commercial aviation. Nick Adams, General Manager for Aviation at Viva Energy, emphasizes that as airlines move towards sustainability, SAF will become increasingly crucial.
Moreover, Viva Energy has received $2.39 million in funding from the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) to develop infrastructure that will support SAF distribution at Brisbane Airport. This includes upgrading existing facilities to facilitate the storage and pipeline distribution of SAF. The initiative also introduces a book-and-claim system enabling customers to trade sustainability certificates linked to the environmental benefits of SAF, which may enhance market dynamics around its adoption.
As underlined in previous discussions among aviation stakeholders, such as ACI Asia-Pacific director Stefano Baronci, the transition to SAF is not without challenges, particularly regarding its current availability and production costs. Nevertheless, there is a concerted effort across the industry to create the necessary environment for SAF production, with collaborative policies being essential for sustainable growth.
These positive developments within the aviation sector signify hopeful progress towards a sustainable future, showcasing how strategic partnerships can address climate challenges while fostering innovation and economic growth within the industry. As the aviation community navigates these transitions, initiatives like those of Viva Energy and Virgin Australia may set a precedent for widespread SAF adoption, aligning with global goals for net-zero emissions by 2050.
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