The Rise of SAF

Synthetic Aviation Fuel has emerged as the aviation industry's most viable solution to achieving decarbonization goals. SAF is no longer just a dream - it’s a commercial reality driving the aviation industry’s transition toward a sustainable future. XCF Global is proud to be at the forefront of this transformative movement.

The Rise of Sustainable Aviation Fuel

SAF Market Overview

The aviation industry is undergoing a critical transformation, with decarbonization at the forefront of global sustainability efforts. In 2022, aviation accounted for 2% of global energy-related CO2 emissions, growing at a faster rate than rail, road, or shipping. To meet net-zero carbon targets by 2050, scaling the production and adoption of SAF is essential.

Regulatory frameworks and industry commitments are driving the SAF market forward. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has set ambitious decarbonization targets, prompting over 40 airlines to commit to SAF adoption. By 2030, airliner SAF uptake is projected to rise from 5% to 30%, with most major airlines targeting at least 10% SAF integration into their fuel mix. Policies such as the U.S. SAF Grand Challenge, the UK’s Renewable Transport Fuel Obligation (RTFO), and the EU’s ReFuelEU Aviation Initiative are fostering investment and accelerating adoption across key markets.

Global initiatives further reinforce this momentum. The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) established a global framework to promote SAF production across all regions, aiming to reduce the carbon intensity of fuels used in international aviation by 5% by 2030. These efforts are paving the way for a more sustainable and resilient aviation sector, with SAF playing the main role in its future.

International Civil Aviation Organization CAAF/3 Outcomes

CO2

5% Decrease in net CO2 emissions targeted by 2030

Key Milestones

Key Milestones

500
Flights

2016: Only 500 flights globally utilized SAF, and production was limited to 2 million gallons.

2,000,000
Flights

2025: Estimated that over 2 million flights annually will rely on SAF, with global production reaching 1.3 billion gallons.

11
Pathways Expansion

SAF pathways have increased from 4 in 2016 to 11 in 2025, unlocking innovative feedstock sources and technologies.

The Road Ahead: SAF in 2025 and Beyond

The "Formational Years" of 2025-2030 will determine SAF’s long-term role in aviation. Key developments include:
Increased Production
To achieve the 2030 SAF Grand Challenge near-term target, U.S. SAF production must reach 3 billion gallons annually by 2030, requiring rapid scaling of production capacity and investment in new technologies.
Policy Alignment
Governments and industries must continue to collaborate in establishing clear regulatory standards and robust carbon credit markets, ensuring SAF adoption is both practical and economically viable.
Infrastructure Expansion
Ongoing investment in SAF production and distribution infrastructure is essential to making SAF widely accessible, enabling seamless integration into global fuel supply chains.