Sustainable Aviation Fuel

Abstract

The aviation sector accounts for over 2% of global CO₂ emissions and is projected to triple by 2050 without intervention. Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) represents a pivotal decarbonization solution, offering net lifecycle greenhouse gas (GHG) reductions of up to 80% compared to conventional jet fuel. This review presents a holistic analysis of SAF development, covering biomass-based and non-biomass feedstocks, conversion pathways (including HEFA, Fischer-Tropsch, ATJ, and Power-to-Liquid), techno-economic performance, and environmental impacts. Key enabling policies such as CORSIA and the EU Fit for 55 framework are examined, alongside challenges like scalability, feedstock availability, and certification bottlenecks. The review concludes by outlining promising research and industrial pathways for accelerating SAF deployment at scale.