In a significant move for Australia’s aviation sector, the country’s largest-ever commercial SAF import has arrived in Sydney. Qantas, Sydney Airport, and Ampol, facilitated the bulk import, alongside Qantas’ Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Coalition partners.
Nearly two million litres of unblended SAF arrived this week, marking a significant step toward reducing aviation’s carbon footprint.
SAF stands as the most promising near-term solution to decarbonize the aviation industry. It offers a sustainable alternative to traditional jet fuel.
Australian Bulk SAF Delivery
On May 7, Ampol imported the SAF from Malaysia to its Kurnell facility. The fuel is now being blended with conventional aviation fuel at an approximate 18% ratio. It will undergo rigorous testing and certification before entering Sydney Airport’s supply chain.
Once certified, it will power flights departing from Sydney over the coming weeks. This volume of SAF could fuel around 900 flights from Sydney to Auckland on Qantas and Jetstar’s 737 aircraft. It will cut carbon emissions by an estimated 3,400 tonnes—equivalent to the annual emissions of about 800 cars.
This milestone highlights the capability of Ampol and Sydney Airport’s existing infrastructure to handle SAF, showing the potential for scaling up its use in Australia.
Developing a Domestic SAF Industry
It also signals growing momentum for establishing a domestic SAF industry, supported by Qantas, the national carrier.
In 2023, Qantas launched the SAF Coalition, uniting 15 major Australian and global companies committed to using SAF at scale to reduce emissions from air travel and freight, which often account for a significant portion of their carbon footprint.
A domestic SAF industry could bring substantial economic benefits. By 2040, it has the potential to contribute A$13 billion annually to Australia’s GDP.
It would support nearly 13,000 jobs in the feedstock supply chain. In addition, it will create 5,000 new jobs to build and operate SAF production facilities. These projections underscore the industry’s promise for economic growth and job creation.
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Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, and Local Government, The Hon. Catherine King MP, praised the initiative. “Australia has a unique opportunity to create jobs, industries, and skills by developing a domestic sustainable fuel sector,” she said.
“This import is a vote of confidence in the industry and a clear signal of demand. Our government is committed to supporting this progress as we build Australia’s future.”
Sydney Airport CEO Scott Charlton emphasized the airport’s pivotal role. “As the hub for nearly 40% of Australia’s aviation fuel uplift, Sydney Airport is well-positioned to lead the development of a domestic SAF industry,” he said.
“New South Wales, a major producer of feedstocks like canola, could become a global SAF leader with the right policy support, creating local jobs and fueling more sustainable flights.”
Qantas Group CEO Vanessa Hudson spoke of the criticality of the venture. “A domestic SAF industry is critical to decarbonizing aviation, enhancing fuel security, and creating jobs,” she said.
“This import demonstrates the demand for sustainable travel. As Australia’s national carrier, we’re committed to reducing aviation’s environmental impact, but collaboration with government and industry is essential. With 70% of our fuel uplifted in Australia, we’re eager to work together to scale SAF production.”
Plans for Future SAF Uptake
Qantas aims to source 10% of its fuel from SAF by 2030 and 60% by 2050, aligning with its Net Zero by 2050 goal. The airline currently uses SAF at London Heathrow and is exploring opportunities at other international hubs.
Through its A$400 million climate fund, Qantas is investing in SAF initiatives, including planned biofuel facilities in Queensland and New Zealand and a climate-focused venture capital fund.
Sydney Airport has set an ambitious target for 50% of its fuel uplift to be SAF by 2050. To further this goal, Qantas and Sydney Airport recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on developing Australia’s SAF industry.
This landmark SAF import marks a turning point for Australian aviation, demonstrating the feasibility of sustainable fuel and paving the way for a cleaner, greener future.
With industry and government alignment, Australia aims to become a global leader in SAF production, driving economic growth and environmental progress.
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