Minister Highlights SAF as Key to Green Aviation
India is making strong strides towards reducing emissions in the aviation sector. Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu has declared Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) as a practical and immediate solution to help decarbonise the country’s aviation industry.
Speaking at the launch of the SAF Feasibility Study in New Delhi, the Minister said SAF has the potential to cut carbon dioxide emissions by up to 80% compared to conventional jet fuel. The report outlines India’s roadmap for becoming a global leader in the SAF sector.
The feasibility study, developed by the Ministry of Civil Aviation in partnership with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and supported by the European Union, was unveiled during a two-day workshop at Udaan Bhawan. The event saw participation from ICAO, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), DGCA, industry experts, and various government departments.
Strong Potential for Domestic SAF Production
The SAF Feasibility Study evaluates India’s ability to produce and use SAF from local sources. It reviews feedstock availability, production options, and policy readiness. With over 750 million metric tonnes of biomass and 230 million metric tonnes of agricultural waste available annually, India has the raw material needed to become self-sufficient in SAF.
Minister Naidu outlined blending targets of 1% by 2027, 2% by 2028, and 5% by 2030, aligning with the international CORSIA mandate. He emphasised that this shift will not only reduce India’s reliance on crude imports but also generate 20–25 million tonnes less carbon emissions each year.
In a major step forward, COTECNA Inspection India Pvt. Ltd. has been recognised as India’s first SAF certification body, and Indian Oil Corporation’s Panipat Refinery is now certified to produce SAF.
Boost for Farmers and the Green Economy
The Minister noted that SAF production will create value chains for agricultural waste, helping farmers earn more from residues that are often discarded. This approach supports both economic development and environmental goals.
Secretary of Civil Aviation Samir Kumar Sinha stressed India’s dedication to the UNFCCC framework and praised the country’s young and fuel-efficient aircraft fleet. He also mentioned that 88 Indian airports now operate entirely on green energy.
DGCA Director General Faiz Ahmed highlighted that passenger numbers in India could reach 500 million by 2030. The SAF study, he said, will help shape a national policy that keeps sustainability at the core of aviation growth.
India’s commitment to SAF reflects a wider vision under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. With solid policy backing and growing global interest, India is well-placed to become a hub for sustainable aviation fuel production.