Airbus Joins Forces with LanzaJet to Enhance SAF
Airbus SE
Airbus and LanzaJet, a renowned sustainable fuels technology company, have announced the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) aimed at addressing the aviation sector's requirements through the production of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).
This MOU establishes a strategic partnership between Airbus and LanzaJet, with a focus on advancing the construction of SAF facilities that will utilise LanzaJet's proven and proprietary Alcohol-to-Jet (ATJ) technology.
The agreement also seeks to expedite the certification and adoption of 100% drop-in SAF, enabling existing aircraft to operate without reliance on fossil fuels.
Given that the aviation industry is responsible for approximately 2–3% of global carbon dioxide emissions, SAF has been identified as a crucial solution by airlines, governments, and energy leaders to decarbonise aviation, in addition to fleet renewal and operational improvements.
"LanzaJet and Airbus are taking a significant stride towards combating climate change and facilitating the global energy transition by recognising SAF as the most viable short-term solution for reducing aviation emissions," stated Jimmy Samartzis, CEO of LanzaJet. "We eagerly anticipate our continued collaboration with Airbus as we expand our joint efforts worldwide, making a greater impact on sustainability."
LanzaJet's proprietary ATJ technology employs low-carbon ethanol to produce SAF, resulting in over a 70% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuels. Additionally, the use of carbon reduction technologies further contributes to emission reductions. SAF produced through LanzaJet's ATJ technology is compatible with existing aircraft and infrastructure as it is an approved drop-in fuel.
Julie Kitcher, EVP of Corporate Affairs and Sustainability at Airbus, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, "We are thrilled to strengthen our collaboration with LanzaJet, a key player in the SAF production ecosystem. At Airbus, we are fully committed to supporting SAF as a significant driver in reducing CO2 emissions on the decarbonisation roadmap. With LanzaJet as our trusted partner, we can accelerate the production of Alcohol-to-Jet SAF on a larger scale. Additionally, this collaboration will explore technological advancements that aim to enable Airbus aircraft to operate with up to 100% SAF by the end of the decade."
Along with focusing on technical issues and actual SAF projects, LanzaJet and Airbus will also look into international business opportunities with airlines and other stakeholders because they recognise the crucial role that the entire ecosystem plays in promoting the widespread adoption of SAF.
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Source: Airbus