Aviation fuel blending combines conventional petroleum-based jet fuel (ATF) with Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)—derived from renewables like waste oils, fats, and alcohols—to reduce carbon emissions. SAF is blended up to 50% under ASTM D7566 standards, acting as a "drop-in" fuel compatible with existing aircraft engines. Recent regulations in India are allowing ethanol-to-jet (ATJ) pathways, while global mandates, such as in the UK and Japan, are increasing, targeting 5% SAF by 2030.
Aviation fuel blending combines conventional petroleum-based jet fuel (ATF) with Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)—derived from renewables like waste oils, fats, and alcohols—to reduce carbon emissions. SAF is blended up to 50% under ASTM D7566 standards, acting as a "drop-in" fuel compatible with existing aircraft engines. Recent regulations in India are allowing ethanol-to-jet (ATJ) pathways, while global mandates, such as in the UK and Japan, are increasing, targeting 5% SAF by 2030.
Key Aspects of Aviation Fuel Blending:
SAF Composition: -
SAF can be produced from waste fats/oils, municipal solid waste, and alcohol-to-jet (ATJ) conversion.
Blending Ratios:-
Certified to be blended up to 50% with conventional jet fuel, ensuring necessary aromatic levels for safety.
Benefits: -
Reduces lifecycle carbon emissions by up to 80% compared to conventional fuel.
Key Trends (2026): -
India now allows synthetic components in ATF to lower import dependence and align with international standards.
Logistics: -
Terminal-based blending is preferred for efficiency, allowing it to fit into current fueling systems without requiring aircraft modifications.
Current Regulatory Landscape:-
India: Amended ATF regulations (April 2026) to define fuel as a mix of hydrocarbons, including synthetic components.
Global Targets:-
International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards are encouraging, with many countries adopting SAF mandates.
This blending is crucial for reducing aviation’s 2% contribution to global CO2𝐶𝑂2
emissions, as noted in the Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) - Alternative Fuels Data Center and ReFuelEU aviation - European Commission reports.
MJF Lion ER YK Sharma
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