Aviation Sector Raises Concerns Over EU's Green Jet Fuel Initiative

Brussels, June 16, 2025 — The European aviation industry is expressing significant reservations about the European Commission's recent initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). According to multiple lobbyists who spoke with POLITICO, a draft declaration intended for endorsement by industry stakeholders was actually composed by European Commission officials, raising questions about the authenticity and intentions behind the document.

The so-called Le Bourget Declaration, which is scheduled for presentation to Transport Commissioner Apostolos Tzitzikostas at the Paris Air Show, is designed to support the Commission’s ambitious targets for SAF utilization as outlined in the ReFuelEU legislative framework. However, the industry's response has been mixed, with some stakeholders describing the declaration as a 'Frankenstein' document that incorporates diverse and conflicting messages.

"This didn’t come from us; this came from DG MOVE," stated one lobby representative, who wished to remain anonymous due to the sensitivity of the discussions. DG MOVE, the Commission's department for mobility and transport, reportedly solicited industry endorsements for a document that many feel does not accurately reflect their positions. Several lobbyists confirmed that they received the draft from DG MOVE weeks prior, leading to concerns about the legitimacy of the industry's supposed endorsement.

The draft document advocates for immediate actions to be included in the upcoming Sustainable Transport Investment Plan, which Tzitzikostas is expected to announce later this year. However, it does not align with recent calls from major European airlines, including Lufthansa and British Airways’ parent company IAG, for a delay in implementing what they deem 'unrealistic' mandates for SAF integration.

The first mandate requiring at least 2 percent SAF in jet fuel went into effect on January 1, 2025. Airlines are currently facing substantial price increases, with SAF costing three times the price of conventional kerosene. Additionally, suppliers have begun charging compliance fees, further straining the financial viability of transitioning to more sustainable fuel sources.

By 2030, the EU plans to escalate the requirement to 6 percent SAF in jet fuel, which will include a minimum of 1.2 percent produced from renewable hydrogen and captured carbon dioxide. Despite these ambitious targets, significant investment decisions regarding e-SAF projects remain unmade within Europe, casting doubt on the feasibility of these goals.

A lobbyist for the aviation sector noted the Commissioner’s desire to avoid the pitfalls encountered by the automotive industry, particularly following the backlash against new regulations banning the sale of gas and diesel vehicles from 2035. The Commissioner aims to maintain the aviation industry's backing for the proposed measures.

In response to the challenges presented by the transition to sustainable aviation fuel, the declaration suggests the establishment of a revenue certainty instrument in collaboration with member states, designed to address the mismatch between long-term SAF production and short-term usage requirements. This mechanism could take various forms, including contracts for difference or auctions, and is anticipated to be operational by the end of 2026.

Industry representatives who received the document have indicated their intention to sign it, despite the mixed feelings about its origin and content. The ongoing discussion around sustainable aviation fuel and the role of the European Commission highlights the complex dynamics at play within the aviation sector as it navigates the path toward decarbonization and sustainability.