California Soars Toward Greener Skies with Sustainable Aviation Fuel Pact

California and a coalition of airlines have agreed to significantly increase the use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) to 200 million gallons by 2035. This agreement aims to reduce aviation emissions and aligns with federal goals for greener aviation. Collaborative efforts with CARB and incentives are key components.

California has taken a significant step toward cleaner skies by securing a landmark agreement with major U.S. passenger and cargo airlines to greatly expand the use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). The pact, involving the California Air Resources Board and Airlines for America, sets an ambitious target of providing 200 million gallons of SAF for California flights by 2035—a figure over ten times current usage levels and enough to cover 40% of the state's intrastate travel demand.

Governor Gavin Newsom praised the collaboration, calling it a 'major step forward' in reducing emissions and pollution. SAF, derived from renewable biomass or waste, currently makes up just 0.1% of global aviation fuel. Airlines for America emphasized the importance of public-private partnerships to meet climate goals, as the organization joins the White House's broader aim to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 and cut aviation emissions by 20% by 2030.

To support this transition, the Energy Department has approved conditional loan guarantees for SAF production projects totaling nearly $3 billion. The project aims to boost annual biofuel production to 315 million gallons, primarily SAF. Further, the agreement includes establishing a SAF working group and a public website to track fuel availability and utilization within California, ensuring transparency and continued progress.

(With inputs from agencies.)