Global SAF production to increase by 25% in 2026

Global production of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) is expected to reach 2.4 million tonnes in 2026, according to a report by the International Air Transport Association (IATA). This would represent an increase of about 25% from the estimated 1.9 million tonnes produced in 2025. However, the pace of growth is expected to slow significantly after production nearly doubled last year.

SAF is projected to account for around 0.8% of total global aviation fuel consumption in 2026, up from 0.6% a year earlier.

“It appears that this year will be another disappointment for SAF production,” said IATA Director General Willie Walsh. “Five years after the commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, SAF production will account for only 0.8% of total aviation fuel consumption this year.”

Walsh noted that achieving the industry’s environmental goals is becoming increasingly difficult due to ineffective government policies and a clear lack of interest from oil companies. He added that the current energy crisis should further accelerate the development of renewable energy sources, including SAF.

“Yet we still do not see the energy crisis, the need for energy independence, or the urgency of climate change mitigation translating into the incentives required to create a viable sustainable aviation fuel market,” Walsh said.

International Air Transport Association represents more than 370 airlines, which together account for approximately 85% of global air traffic.

Tags: biofuel