Delta Airlines Steps Up Advocacy for Sustainable Aviation Fuel
As part of its Earth Month initiatives, Delta Airlines is intensifying its push for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) to reduce its carbon footprint significantly. With jet fuel contributing to 90% of the airline's carbon emissions, the company has identified SAF as a crucial element in its strategy to decrease environmental impact.
Despite SAF's potential to lower lifecycle carbon emissions by up to 80%, its adoption is hindered by insufficient production and high costs compared to conventional jet fuel. Delta is tackling these challenges by advocating for supportive government policies that could spur SAF production. The airline is actively seeking incentives such as tax credits and government-backed financing programs to make SAF more economically viable.
Delta's efforts include forming coalitions and partnering with stakeholders across various sectors to promote the benefits of SAF. This includes working with state and federal policymakers to create a more favorable environment for SAF production and adoption. States like Minnesota, Washington, and Illinois have responded by implementing SAF-specific tax credits, influenced by Delta's advocacy.
In 2023, Delta played a significant role in establishing the Minnesota SAF Hub. This initiative focuses on developing local strategies for SAF production and utilization, aiming to model how regions can support the transition to lower-carbon aviation fuels.
Delta's commitment extends beyond local advocacy, as it works with SAF producers to secure a dependable supply. The airline aims to achieve a 10% usage of SAF by 2030, aligning its operations with broader environmental goals. Through these efforts, Delta not only advances its sustainability agenda but also leads by example in the aviation industry, promoting a shift towards more environmentally responsible practices.