Toward Net-Zero Flight: Scaling Sustainable Aviation Fuel Pathways and Policy

Abstract

Aviation contributes a meaningful share of global climate forcing and its fuel demand is expected to grow substantially toward mid-century. Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) is widely viewed as the most practical near-term decarbonization lever for long-haul fleets because it can be blended with Jet A-1 and used within existing aircraft and airport infrastructure. This review synthesizes the state of SAF feedstocks and conversion routes, spanning lipid-based hydroprocessing (HEFA), gasification and Fischer-Tropsch synthesis (FT), Alcohol-to-Jet (ATJ), and emerging Power-to-Liquid (PtL) e-fuels produced from CO₂ and renewable hydrogen. We compare indicative yields, lifecycle greenhouse-gas performance, and cost drivers, and we summarize policy and certification enablers including CORSIA and the EU Fit for 55 package. The analysis highlights a central deployment tension: near-term volume growth is constrained by sustainable feedstock availability, while the deepest long-term abatement hinges on scaling low-carbon electricity and green hydrogen. We conclude with priority research and market-structuring actions to accelerate credible, scalable SAF deployment.