United Airlines has taken a pioneering step in sustainable air travel by becoming the first airline to purchase sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) for use at O’Hare International Airport (ORD). On August 1, 2024, United’s leadership, alongside Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, highlighted the importance of the state’s SAF tax credits in facilitating this significant milestone.
SAF producer Neste will provide up to 1 million gallons of Neste MY Sustainable Aviation Fuel™ to United at ORD throughout 2024. This move aligns with United’s ongoing efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and underscores the airline’s leadership in the sustainable aviation sector. United was the first U.S. airline to set a goal of achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 without relying on carbon offsets. The airline’s commitment to SAF is evident, with O’Hare becoming the fifth airport where United has integrated SAF into its operations.
Governor JB Pritzker emphasized Illinois’ role in promoting sustainability, particularly through the SAF tax credit passed in the previous year. “Illinois’s position as a hub of innovation with some of the most connected airports in the country perfectly aligns with the work of companies like United to build a more sustainable future for travel,” said Pritzker. The tax incentives were instrumental in bringing SAF to O’Hare, highlighting the critical intersection of policy and innovation in driving environmental progress.
United’s President, Brett Hart, echoed this sentiment, noting the potential for airlines and policymakers to collaborate in expanding the SAF market. “This is what happens when innovation, leadership, and policy come together,” Hart stated during the announcement at ORD.
The Impact of Sustainable Aviation Fuel
SAF, an alternative to conventional jet fuel, can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 85% on a lifecycle basis. This reduction is possible because SAF is made from renewable materials rather than fossil fuels. The ability to use SAF with existing fuel systems and aircraft engines makes it a scalable solution for the aviation sector’s push towards net zero emissions.
United has been a strong advocate for SAF-related legislation, including the federal SAF Blender’s Tax Credit and various state-level tax incentives. The airline’s efforts have helped secure SAF tax credits in Illinois, Colorado, California, and Washington, encouraging the use of SAF at local airports.
Leading the Way in Sustainable Aviation
United’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond fuel usage. The airline’s comprehensive strategy includes operational efficiencies, the introduction of fuel-efficient planes, and investments in alternate propulsion technologies. To further the development and deployment of SAF, United played a key role in founding the SAF Coalition, a consortium that includes more than 40 organizations across the aviation and biofuel industries.
In addition to its own initiatives, United has engaged the broader business community through the Eco-Skies AllianceSM. This program allows companies to share the costs associated with purchasing lower emission fuels. Since its inception in 2021, the alliance has contributed to the purchase of over 10.5 million gallons of SAF.
United has also launched the UAV Sustainable Flight FundSM, an investment fund designed to support startups focused on decarbonizing air travel. The fund, which has attracted over $200 million in commitments from United and 21 corporate partners, represents a concerted effort to foster innovation in sustainable aviation.
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