Emirates airline, based in Dubai, has forged an alliance with Shell Aviation to procure over 300,000 gallons of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), marking a significant move towards environmentally-friendly aviation solutions amid rising global climate concerns.
This landmark SAF supply will start by the close of this year, paving the way for reduced emissions. Notably, this will be the inaugural supply of SAF via the fuelling system at Dubai International (DXB) airport.
SAF is renowned as a safe and certified alternative fuel that seamlessly integrates with the current aircraft and airport infrastructure. It can merge with traditional jet fuel up to a 50% ratio, producing an aviation fuel with considerably reduced carbon emissions. Pure SAF can slash emissions by a striking 80% relative to standard jet fuel.
Sir Tim Clark, the president of Emirates airline, expressed optimism about this collaboration, aspiring for a consistent SAF supply at the airline’s hub, noting the absence of SAF production facilities in the UAE presently.
Highlighting the pivotal role of aviation in the UAE’s economic landscape, he mentioned, “We’re keen on forging ties with entities and organizations that share our vision to amplify the introduction of SAF – a scarcely available fuel – into the aviation fuel supply chain, reinforcing Emirates’ commitment to trimming emissions.”
Earlier in January 2023, Emirates showcased its commitment by operating a demonstration flight using a Boeing 777-300ER, with one engine powered entirely by SAF. Collaborations with GE Aerospace, Boeing, Honeywell, Neste, and Virent were instrumental in creating this SAF blend mirroring conventional jet fuel properties.
Chu Yong-Yi, VP of Shell Corporate Travel, praised the initiative, asserting, “Supplying SAF at DXB for the first time sets a significant precedent. It exemplifies the collaborative spirit in the aviation sector, driving SAF’s momentum. We’re hopeful this propels more SAF endeavors across the UAE’s aviation sector, propelling us closer to our net-zero emissions objective.”
To ensure transparency, Emirates will monitor the SAF’s delivery and utilization using Avelia, a cutting-edge blockchain-backed SAF solution, as part of the agreement.
