EU Aviation Fuel Goals Unreachable

The head of the International Air Transport Association (IATA), Willie Walsh, issued a stark warning on Thursday, labelling the European Union’s sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) targets as “not achievable.”

Speaking at an industry event, Walsh argued that the current pace of production is failing to meet the ambitious mandates set by the bloc to curb fossil fuel emissions.

The EU’s roadmap requires airlines to integrate 2% SAF into their fuel mix this year, a figure set to climb sharply to 20% by 2035 and 70% by 2050.

However, Walsh noted that the industry is “way behind” where it needs to be, as high costs and limited supply continue to hamper progress.

IATA (News Central TV) — IATA says that the EU aviation fuel goals are unreachable. Credit: BusinessDay

While global SAF production is expected to reach 2.4 million tonnes this year, that amount covers less than 1% of the total fuel consumed by the global fleet.

Despite these logistical hurdles, the European Commission has stood firm, insisting that the targets remain “realistic and feasible.”

Airline executives remain concerned that the scarcity of green fuel will damage their competitiveness as global passenger traffic surges.

Nevertheless, Walsh reaffirmed that the industry remains committed to its long-term goal of halving 2005-level emissions by 2050, even if the EU’s specific milestones prove elusive.

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Abisoye Adeyiga

Abisoye Adedoyin Adeyiga holds a PhD in Languages and Media Studies and a Master’s in Education (English Language). Trained in digital marketing and investigative journalism, she is passionate about new media’s transformative power. She enjoys reading, traveling, and meaningful conversations.