Avolon has announced a collaboration with Boeing, ORIX Aviation, SFS Ireland, and SkyNRG, to conduct a feasibility study into the production of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) in Ireland. This partnership reflects Avolon and its partners’ commitment to taking a leading role in helping develop future technologies that reduce the aviation sector’s carbon footprint. The study is being led by SFS Ireland and SkyNRG with the goal of identifying market-level opportunities for an investable commercial-scale SAF production facility in Ireland. The study will be completed in 2023.
The planned growth of renewable energy sources in the country makes Ireland a potential location for SAF production. As a global leader in aviation finance and airline operations, Ireland is home to key stakeholders in aviation’s decarbonisation journey. SAF is a commercially used fuel that reduces lifecycle emissions by up to 80%, creating the opportunity to significantly lower aviation’s reliance on fossil fuels, as well as its overall emissions. IATA, the trade association of the world’s airlines, sees SAF playing a key role in helping aviation reach its net zero target by 2050 – a target that has been set by its member airlines – contributing to c.65% of the reduction in emissions needed.
Commenting on the announcement of the collaboration, the new Avolon CEO, Andy Cronin said, “It’s imperative that the aviation sector delivers on its promise to invest in innovation to reduce its carbon footprint. We are delighted to be partnering with a team of global experts that have a shared ambition of being at the forefront of sustainable innovation that will reshape the future of aviation. The path to net zero requires a combination of new technology aircraft and large-scale deployment of SAF, and this project will help deliver sustainable solutions to accelerate decarbonization.”
Also commenting was the Boeing Vice President, of Environmental Engagement and Business Development, Sheila Remes who said, “We will need a massive increase in the amount of SAF if we are to reach our industry’s commitment to net zero carbon emissions by 2050. Scaling SAF is paramount. Ireland’s growth in renewable energy makes it a prime location for SAF production with zero climate impact. Global partnerships like this enable us all to advocate for and scale SAF supply.”
And commenting on behalf of SFS Ireland, Darren Carty added, “Aviation has a rich history in Ireland, embedded in over 50 years of innovation and leadership. As pilots, we understand and acknowledge the importance of delivering SAF to the market and see the Irish aviation industry as a central player in the mission to decarbonise air transport globally. We are proud to be a part of this exciting new team, forging a path toward a cleaner, brighter, and more sustainable future.”
