A Boeing executive believes that Brazil has the capability to become a significant player in the field of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). The aviation industry is aiming to achieve a carbon-neutral status by 2050, and the production and expansion of SAF will play a crucial role in attaining this objective. Brazil, renowned for its extensive agricultural output, is already a frontrunner in biofuels like sugarcane or corn-based ethanol and soyoil-derived biodiesel.
Landon Loomis, Boeing’s head for Latin America and the Caribbean, has emphasized Brazil’s technical prowess, skilled workforce, and abundant raw materials as factors that position the nation to make noteworthy strides in reducing aviation emissions. Presently, Boeing stands as one of the largest purchasers of sustainable aviation fuel on a global scale.
Although advancements in technology are imperative for curbing aviation-related emissions, the industry is primarily focusing on fuels compatible with existing jet engines. Plant or waste-based SAF and synthetic alternatives hold particular promise. However, the restricted supply of SAF presents a significant hurdle in reaching the aviation sector’s carbon-neutrality goal due to high costs and sluggish production growth.
According to estimates by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), SAF could potentially contribute up to 65% towards the aviation industry’s endeavor to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. Recognizing the urgency, Eduardo Calderon, the Director of Gol Airline’s Operations Control Center, emphasized the immediate need for investing in SAF. Currently, SAF is three times more expensive than conventional fossil fuels, underscoring the importance of ramping up production to lower costs and establish it as a viable alternative.
With Brazil’s proficiency in biofuels and its abundant resources, the country is well-positioned to play a pivotal role in the sustainable aviation fuel sector. Nonetheless, investments, technological advancements, and collaboration among industry stakeholders are indispensable for realizing Brazil’s potential and accomplishing the ambitious objective of decarbonizing aviation by 2050.
