Aerospace company Airbus, in collaboration with the Department of Transport (DOTr), the Department of Energy (DOE), and the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), is working towards achieving 100 percent sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) in its aircraft operations in the country by 2030.
In a statement on Thursday, Oct. 3, Airbus said that an initial study will be conducted to assess the practicality of the fuel and ensure compliance with guidelines set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
This study aligns with the DOE’s initiative to develop SAF, which aims to reduce carbon emissions, enhance air quality, and diversify fuel sources, among other benefits.
Airbus said sustainable jet fuel is crucial for reducing carbon emissions in the aerospace industry by up to 80 percent over its entire life cycle compared to traditional fossil fuels.
“As a member of the ICAO, the Philippines is committed to achieving the industry’s net zero carbon emission target by 2050,” Airbus stated.
The aviation company also stated that adopting a combination of measures such as fleet renewal, disruptive technologies, operational improvements, SAF, and carbon offset initiatives would have environmental benefits.
“In support of the Philippine’s SAF roadmap and as a partner of ICAO ACT-SAF, Airbus will
contribute to the country’s SAF feasibility study, analyzing country specific macroeconomic data, evaluating SAF feedstocks and production pathways, assessing relevant implementation support, financing, and policies, as well as drafting an action plan,” the company added.
Moreover, the study would be used as a basis to develop future policies as well as encourage industry stakeholders to push SAF production in the country.
“All Airbus aircraft are already able to operate with up to 50 percent SAF,” it shared.