Background on the Introduction of Sustainable Aviation Fuel and Overview of Its Production Technology

Abstract

As one of the measures to reduce global warming in the international aviation sector, IATA (International Air Transport Association) and ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) have established a framework for setting targets, establishing and operating systems, and using sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) to expand their introduction. SAF is derived from non-fossil resources and produced through various conversion processes. It has the great advantage of reducing CO₂ emissions while maintaining normal flight operations without modifying aircraft fuel systems, engines, or infrastructure. Currently, there is a large gap in production volume relative to demand for carbon neutrality, production costs are higher than for jet fuel derived from fossil resources, and there are challenges in securing stable and efficient raw materials. In Japan, the construction of the supply chain from raw material procurement, manufacturing, and supply to airports, as well as the certification and verification of environmental impact reduction effects, are still underway. This review provides an overview of SAF, including background on the introduction of SAF, standards and certification systems, types of SAF raw materials, production processes, current development trends, and development of new raw materials.

graphical abstract