Alaska Airlines has announced it has finalised an agreement to purchase its most sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) yet. The agreement with biofuel company Gevo Inc will see the aviation company commit to 185 million gallons of SAF across a five-year period, starting in 2026.
Alaska Airlines’ goals for sustainable aviation
The agreement, supported by members of the Oneworld alliance, supports Alaska Airlines’ commitment and goals to achieving carbon net zero by 2040. The road map also identified the need for Alaska Airlines to reduce greenhouse gas emissions as an opportunity to take action on the environment.
The roadmap includes five focus areas to achieve the goal of net-zero emissions, including fleet renewal, operational efficiency, novel propulsion, high-quality carbon offsetting technology and SAF.
Ann Ardizzone, vice president of supply chain at Alaska Airlines, is proud of the progress the airline is making in committing to more sustainable options.
“Alaska is proud to play a role in advancing this critical market for sustainable aviation fuels. Making SAF commercially viable at scale requires strong partners and action on all fronts. We appreciate the partnership of suppliers like Gevo in tackling this challenge.”
Alaska Airlines and Gevo have held a strong relationship to support sustainable aviation. In 2016, history was made as the partnership produced the first commercial flight from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport to Reagan National Airport in Washington D.C, powered by forest residuals and a 20 per cent blend of SAF.
SAF will most likely influence consumer choice over the coming years
With Alaska Airlines’ commitment, Oneworld is becoming a leader in the sustainable aviation field. The use of SAF is quickly becoming a factor in consumer choice, especially among those prioritising reducing their carbon footprint. Willie Walsh, Director General of the International Air Transport Association, previously told CNBC that consumers recognise the importance of SAF despite the high cost. This is due to the growing awareness of the need for sustainability, especially within the aviation sector.
As part of the alliance, Alaska Airlines is further supported by Oneworld’s target of carbon neutrality by 2050.
Will you choose who you fly with based on their use of SAF? Let us know in the comments below!
