Pioneering a Greener Future

In a groundbreaking move towards sustainability, International Airlines Group (IAG), the parent company of British Airways, has inked a monumental agreement to acquire 785,000 tonnes of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) produced using power-to-liquid technology. This significant development marks a pivotal step in the aviation industry’s quest for environmentally-friendly solutions.

Understanding eSAF: A Revolution in Fuel Production

Unlike traditional SAF derived from various feedstocks like cooking oil and agricultural residues, eSAF is synthesized from carbon dioxide (CO2), water, and renewable energy sources. The innovative process, pioneered by California-based producer Twelve, harnesses renewable electricity and CO2 to produce high-quality synthetic fuels, ushering in a new era of sustainable aviation.

The 14-Year Partnership: Fueling Sustainability Goals

Under the terms of the 14-year contract with Twelve, IAG will commence receiving eSAF shipments as early as 2025. This strategic alliance underscores IAG’s commitment to sustainability, positioning it as a trailblazer in the adoption of eco-friendly aviation practices.

Driving Change: IAG’s Environmental Initiatives

IAG’s collaboration with Twelve represents a significant milestone in its sustainability journey. As the first European airline group to announce an eSAF deal, IAG has made substantial progress towards its goal of operating 10% of flights with SAF by 2030. In 2023 alone, IAG purchased approximately 12% of the global SAF supply, demonstrating its firm dedication to reducing carbon emissions.

Partnerships for Progress: Collaboration Fuels Innovation

IAG’s proactive approach to sustainability extends beyond eSAF procurement. Last summer, IAG and Microsoft forged a groundbreaking co-funded agreement aimed at reducing Sustainable Aviation Fuel emissions on a global scale. Additionally, British Airways unveiled Project Speedbird, a pioneering initiative backed by £9 million in funding, aimed at ramping up SAF production in collaboration with Nova Pangaea Technologies and LanzaJet.

Charting a Greener Course for Aviation

As the aviation industry grapples with the imperative to mitigate its environmental impact, IAG’s commitment to sustainability emerges as a beacon of hope. Through strategic partnerships, innovative technologies, and bold initiatives, IAG is spearheading a transformation towards greener skies, ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.