Cross-sector collaboration key to scaling SAF production as Airbus invests in LanzaJet
July 24, 2024
With sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) key to meeting the industry’s net zero goals, the rapid scaling of supply and production using different feedstocks and pathways is critical. To help meet this demand, airframe manufacturer Airbus revealed on Wednesday, 24 July, that it was investing in LanzaJet, a U.S.-based sustainable fuels technology company and producer.
With the aviation sector using 100 billion gallons of fossil jet fuel per year, the investment will support the development of the Alcohol-to-Jet (ATJ) pathway, enabling LanzaJet to expand its capability and capacity to produce SAF made from ethanol as a feedstock. The SAF producer is currently working on the world’s first commercial-scale production of ethanol-to-SAF at its LanzaJet Freedom Pines Fuels plant in the US.
“Our partnership with LanazaJet demonstrates Airbus’ commitment to work with leading energy technology suppliers to explore innovative production pathways and scale SAF,” said Julie Kitcher, chief sustainability officer at Airbus. She added that it reiterates the importance of cross-sector collaboration to achieve net zero targets.
An approved drop-in fuel compatible with existing aircraft engines and fuelling infrastructure, LanzaJet’s technology uses low-carbon ethanol to create SAF that reduces greenhouse gas emission by more than 70% compared to fossil fuels through its lifecycle.
