KLM Urges EU for Stricter Sustainable Aviation Fuel Policies
Europe is poised at a transformative junction, reshaping aviation's future.
The Draghi report casts a spotlight on three primary challenges that the aviation sector faces:
- Energy security
- Competitiveness
- Emissions reduction.
KLM, a pioneer in the aviation industry, is championing the call for the EU to adopt stringent policies surrounding the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and electro-Sustainable Aviation Fuel (e-SAF), which are viewed as critical solutions to aviation emissions.
KLM's Strategic Role in Shaping Green Aviation
KLM has expressed unwavering dedication to slashing aviation emissions.
It has heavily invested in renewing its fleet and incorporating SAF.
KLM has secured the usage of SAF through partnerships and agreements.
Air France-KLM is partnering with TotalEnergies for the supply of 1.5 million tons of SAF until 2035.
“Securing the volumes of more sustainable aviation fuel needed to decarbonise our activity is a major challenge,” comments Benjamin Smith, Chief Executive Officer of Air France-KLM Group.
“This agreement with TotalEnergies is a further step in this direction and a testament to our long-standing support for the development of SAF production in France and Europe.
“A solid SAF sector capable of meeting our industry’s needs is a key factor in Europe’ sovereignty and energy independence.”
As an influential advocate for sustainable aviation, KLM stands as the largest buyer of SAF among airlines and actively supports the transition to low-emission air travel.
By co-founding Project SkyPower, KLM actively pushes for policy reforms to boost e-SAF production.
KLM's CEO, Marjan Rintel, serves as one of the three co-chairs of Project SkyPower.
“Only by working together with government, knowledge institutes and industry can we take significant steps to achieve cleaner and quieter operations,” she explains.
“The Netherlands has the expertise, infrastructure and entrepreneurs to lead the way.
“The 10 concrete commitments adopted by the Dutch airline industry show what we stand for, what politicians can contribute to achieve these ambitions and what the Dutch people stand to gain.
“Together, let’s build a future-proof airline industry for everyone.”
The potential of e-SAF
e-SA presents a revolutionary pathway to augment energy security, foster industrial competitiveness and propel clean technology innovation.
This synthetic jet fuel, derived from renewable energy sources, is a step ahead of traditional SAF which typically uses biomass.
The production of e-SAF involves a unique process that melds three key components: renewable electricity sourced from solar, wind or hydro, water and captured CO₂ which can be sourced from industrial emissions or direct air capture.The innovation in this field could potentially generate 20,000 jobs by 2050 and grant access to a €350bn (US $366bn) global market, positioning Europe as a leader in sustainable aviation.
Despite around 30 projects being announced, none have yet reached a final investment decision, underscoring an urgent need for policy support to propel investment and commercialisation in this sector.
There are numerous efforts underway to advance e-SAF's development.
Industry leaders suggest five pivotal policy interventions to combat investment barriers and expedite e-SAF development.
These involve prioritizing e-SAF in industrial and transport plans to spur investments, using EU Emissions Trading Scheme revenues to nurture market growth, implementing a bridging mechanism to support early adopters, providing long-term regulatory clarity, and mitigating risks associated with project delays.
With its rich resources, expertise, and alignment within the industry, the EU is poised to spearhead the global revolution in e-SAF.
Implementing these strategic policy interventions can catalyze investment, scale production, and cement Europe's leadership in sustainable aviation and clean technology innovation.
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