UKPIA urges the UK Government to set a realistic 2025 target for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) usage by UK airlines, as failure may lead to higher ticket prices
In response to the Government’s consultation on Developing the UK Sustainable Aviation Fuel Mandate, UKPIA emphasised that setting a target for SAF above 0.5% as a proportion of jet fuel in 2025 would be unattainable.
In fact, even the Department for Transport analysis of low carbon fuel feedstocks supports this claim.
Government’s consideration for sustainable aviation fuel
While acknowledging that a target of 0.5% is “highly ambitious,” the UK Government is contemplating SAF targets ranging from 0.5% to 4% for 2025.
However, UKPIA cautions that establishing a target higher than 0.5% in 2025 could compel fuel suppliers to make “buy out” payments to the Government due to inadequate SAF supply.
Potential impact on passengers
Such penalties could potentially be passed on to the aviation industry, leading to increased prices for passengers. UKPIA CEO Elizabeth de Jong voiced concerns, stating, “The Government’s own calculations demonstrate that the maximum achievable SAF target in jet fuels is 0.5% by 2025.
Setting a higher target would not further reduce greenhouse gas emissions but could result in higher costs for the aviation sector and passengers.”
Disagreement over limiting HEFA
UKPIA also disagrees with the UK Government’s plan to restrict the use of Hydroprocessed Esters and fatty acids (HEFA) in SAF.
HEFA is a renewable aviation fuel derived from various vegetable oils and fats, and it is the most cost-effective form of SAF.
Limiting its use in the UK could potentially raise costs for UK air passengers, as no other country’s SAF policies impose similar restrictions on HEFA, putting the UK at a competitive disadvantage.
Importance of sound science in setting targets
UKPIA emphasises the necessity for SAF targets to be based on solid scientific evidence rather than relying on the emergence of yet unknown technologies.
This approach ensures that the policy is effective and prevents the UK aviation sector from facing potentially higher costs.
