IATA Urges Govts To Scale Up SAF Production Through Policy Frameworks

KUALA LUMPUR, April 15 (Bernama) -- The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has urged governments to implement policy frameworks to scale up sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production and reduce costs, saying that SAF volumes remain far below what is needed and production costs continue to be high.

In a statement today, the airline trade association said the industry is committed to net zero carbon emissions by 2050.

“But the ramp-up of SAF -- our strongest lever -- has been disappointing. The major fuel producers have been slow-walking -- or sidelining -- planned investments in SAF,” IATA global head of cargo Brendan Sullivan said.

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He added that aircraft manufacturers have backed off their commitments for medium-term delivery of carbon emission-reducing products such as hydrogen-powered aircraft and governments have not provided the policy support needed, although they have a playbook at hand with how the wind and solar energy industries expanded.

“Instead, they send mixed signals by subsidising fossil fuel extraction while aiming for net zero (carbon emissions). Airlines are committed and determined but we cannot do it alone. We need action behind the words of regulators, fuel suppliers and manufacturers,” said Sullivan.

According to IATA, momentum around SAF is growing, with new agreements across the value chain and more companies committing to SAF use.

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The association said it will soon launch CO2 Connect for Cargo to support accurate emissions calculation and reporting, including SAF usage.

Meanwhile, IATA said the role of air cargo is vital in maintaining global supply chain resilience and called on governments and industry to remain focused on delivering the fundamental expectations of customers -- safety and security, digitalisation and sustainability.

Sullivan said whether supporting global trade, enabling e-commerce, or delivering vital humanitarian aid, the value of air cargo has never been clearer.

“To meet customer expectations and navigate an increasingly complex environment, the air cargo industry must continuously strengthen safety and security, fast-track digitalisation, and deliver on its sustainability commitments,” he added. 

On the safe transport of lithium batteries, IATA called on governments to step up efforts to stop rogue shippers and support the International Civil Aviation Organisation’s work to strengthen Annex 18 of the Chicago Convention, the global framework for the safe transport of dangerous goods by air.

“Shipments of lithium batteries are growing in volume. With that come increased risks associated with undeclared or mis-declared goods. The industry has invested in training, certification, and technology. Governments must match that commitment with robust oversight and enforcement,” said Sullivan.

-- BERNAMA