Report

United States sustainable aviation fuel market is expected to observe a CAGR of 31.00% during the forecast period 2024-2031F, rising from USD 259.03 million in 2023 to USD 2246.57 million in 2031. The United States sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) market is a game changer in the aviation industry driven by the global shift to sustainability and environmental responsibility. SAF is a compelling alternatives to traditional fossil-based jet fuel and can reduce carbon emissions and environmental impact. As the industry is under pressure to address its carbon footprint the demand for SAF in the United States is growing. This emerging market is backed by advancements in biofuel production technology which is making SAF more efficient and scalable. Partnerships between airlines, fuel producers, and tech developers are key to overcome the logistical and economic challenges of SAF deployment. Government policies and incentives are playing a big role in accelerating SAF adoption, research and development, and building the infrastructure for widespread use. As the sector moves toward decarbonization and green aviation solutions the SAF market in the United States is getting more attractive to investors, manufacturers, and stakeholders who are committed to environmental sustainability and a cleaner future for air travel. This landscape shows the growing importance of SAF in the fight against climate change and opportunities for investors in the evolution of the aviation industry to more sustainable practices.
Government Incentives to Promote Market Growth
Government incentives are crucial for the growth of the United States Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) market driven by innovation, costs reduction, and speed-adoption. Federal and state policies such as tax credits, grants, and funding programs are designed to support SAF production and infrastructure development. For instance, the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) requires the use of renewable fuels including SAF and offers financial incentives for compliance. Government backed initiatives such as the SAF Grand Challenge are working to improve SAF technology and scale production. These incentives reduce financial barriers for producers and encourage investments in SAF research and development so that the aviation sector can meet its decarbonization goals. By creating a supportive economic environment and sustainable practices, government policies play a key role in the growth of SAF market, leading to a greener air travel.
For instance, in September 2021, the Department of Energy, the Department of Transportation, and the USDA launched a Sustainable Aviation Fuel Grand Challenge to meet the demand for sustainable aviation fuels. The challenge will reduce costs, increase sustainability, production, and consumption of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) to achieve 50% reduction in life cycle greenhouse gas emissions compared to conventional fuel. The goal is to produce at least 3 billion gallons of SAF by 2030 and 100% of aviation fuel by 2050.
Increasing R&D Activities to Achieve Improvement in Aircraft Fuel Efficiency
NASA has launched the Sustainable Flight National Partnership to speed the development of aircraft and engine technologies that burn less fuel and reduce carbon emissions. The FAA is giving over USD 100 million to aircraft and engine companies to develop and demonstrate these technologies. The DoD is investing in legacy aircraft efficiency and new energy efficient aircraft. Examples include the Air Force B-52 Commercial Engine Replacement Program, Army Improved Engine Turbine Program, Adaptive Engine Transition Program, Next-Generation Adaptive Propulsion Program, and Air Force Legacy Aircraft Drag Reduction Program. The DoD is investing USD 16.5 million for six projects in the Systems for Monitoring and Analytics for Renewable Transportation Fuels from Agricultural Resources and Management (SMARTFARM) program.
For instance, The FAA has given out USD 20.4 million in grants to reduce emissions and improve air quality at airports across the United States. The grants will fund zero-emission vehicles, electric charging stations, and electrify ramp equipment for plane servicing. The FAA introduced the Aviation Climate Research (ACR) program in the FY2022 Budget Request with a USD 50 million budget to invest in game changing research to reduce aviation emissions.
The Western United States to Dominate Market
The Western United States, including California, Washington, and Oregon is dominating the Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) market due to its focus on innovation, environmentalism, and sustainability. California's leadership in promoting SAF through tough environmental regulations and supportive policies and major airports such as Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and San Francisco International Airport (SFO) has made it a pioneer in market. The region's commitment to integrating SAF into their operations gives them more influence on the national market. The region's focus on renewable energy supports SAF production, the development and deployment of SAF technologies, and align with the regional sustainability goals. Overall, the combination of regulatory leadership, airport initiatives, and renewable energy integration in the Western United States is a big driver of the SAF market in the United States.
For instance, in July 2024, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, the United States sustainable aviation fuel production capacity went from 2,000 barrels per day (b/d) in 2019 to 19,000 b/d in 2023 and its expected increase to 30,000 b/d by the end of 2024.
Biofuel Segment Holds the Highest Market Share
In the United States SAF market, the biofuel segment holds the largest share due to its crucial role in the industry's transition toward green aviation. Biofuels derived from renewable sources, such as plant materials, agricultural residues, and waste oils, offer a compelling alternative to traditional fossil-based jet fuels. These biofuels effectively reduce carbon emissions and minimize environmental impact. Their dominance is attributed to their advanced technology, scalability, and existing infrastructure. As the aviation sector increasingly emphasizes sustainability and decarbonization, biofuels have become the primary focus due to their proven efficacy and compatibility with current aircraft engines. The leadership of the sector in the SAF market underscores its critical contribution to meet regulatory requirements and achieving long-term environmental goals.
For instance, in 2022, 66.61 billion liters (17.6 billion gallons) of biofuel were consumed, and 70.78 billion liters (18.7 billion gallons) were generated in the United States. The United States exported around 3.785 billion liters (1.0 billion gallons) of biofuels.
Future Market Scenario (2024 - 2031F)
Innovations in biomass-to-biofuel technology and the incorporation of e-fuels generated by power-to-liquids conversion processes are important factors in the United States sustainable aviation fuel market. Long-term concerns about biomass availability will make e-fuels, which depend on cheap, plentiful, and low-carbon energy and hydrogen from renewable sources such as wind, solar, hydropower, and nuclear.
For instance, in July 2024, to promote the worldwide development of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF), Airbus is investing in LanzaJet, a top sustainable fuel for technology firms. To produce Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) on a large-scale, LanzaJet will be able to increase its ability to scale its patented Ethanol to SAF process technology due to the funding.
Key Players Landscape and Outlook
In the United States, the Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) market is led by key players who pioneer SAF production and innovation. These companies are advancing SAF technology through significant investments and strategic partnerships. The market outlook is expected to be strong and driven by increasing regulatory support, federal incentives, and growing airline commitments to reduce carbon emissions. The focus is on scaling SAF production and enhancing feedstock efficiency. Collaborations between fuel producers, airlines, and research institutions are crucial for accelerating SAF adoption and achieving the sustainability targets of the United States sustainable aviation fuel market.
For instance, in October 2023, Neste and Emirates have teamed together to supply more than three million gallons of blended Neste MY Sustainable Aviation Fuel, which combines traditional jet fuel, for Emirates aircraft leaving from Singapore Changi and Amsterdam Schiphol airports in 2024 and 2025. Emirates has received sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) from Neste for flights leaving from Changi Airport in Singapore, making Emirates the first foreign visiting carrier to use SAF. Over 2,600 tons (3.3 million liters) of mixed SAF have been added to Changi Airport's fueling system to accommodate Emirates' needs.