Airbus is taking an important step towards expanding the adoption of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) by testing a new “book and claims” approach.
The initiative aims to boost both the supply and demand of sustainable aviation fuels around the world, providing flexible and scalable solutions to accelerate SAF adoption.
The first MOU was signed by SMBC Aviation Capital, then signed by Aercap, Comlux, Luxaviation, Novespace, Rive Private Investment and Saf Aerogroup. They have been interested in participating in this joint initiative and confirmed that they will strengthen the industry-wide intentions.
Book and claim approaches to adopt SAF use
Simply put, the book and billing approach allows buyers to “reserve” a certain amount of sustainable aviation fuel and “claim” for corresponding emission reductions, even when the fuel is used elsewhere.
Through a pilot program running throughout 2025, Airbus will leverage the system to improve SAF accessibility for potential customers, especially those with limited volume and far from the supply point.
As a facilitator, Airbus purchases SAF certificates and manages relevant sustainability attributes through a roundtable registry on sustainable biomaterials (RSB), a recognized sustainability certification body.
These certificates stimulate short-term demand for SAFs as they are resold to interested customers such as aircraft and helicopter operators.
Expanding the market for alternative fuels
The pilot program is expected to generate important insights into the capabilities and robustness of this innovative book and claim mechanism. We also assess the market’s interest in promoting third-party third-party for these integrated SAF solutions.
“We’re looking for a way to help you get started,” said Julian Manhess, Airbus Head of Sustainable Aviation Fuel and Carbon Dioxide Removal.
“For many small operators, access to sustainable aviation fuels can be challenging, depending on the amount needed.
“Through this initiative, Airbus can simplify and eliminate risks for operators and SAF suppliers by financially protecting SAF certificates in advance and sharing them when they need them.
“This is also a great opportunity to demonstrate that books and claims are reliable and that their use should be extended in voluntary and regulated markets.”
Further Airbus Initiatives to Achieve Net Zero
In addition to other market-based measures, Airbus is consistent with global and binding decarbonisation programs to reduce CO2 emissions in the aviation industry.
This supports and contributes to the industry-wide ambitions to implement global, market-based measures for the aviation industry.
The aviation industry, including Airbus, is committed to an industry-wide decarbonization movement, including the following key targets:
Low carbon growth rates: Over the years, aviation stakeholders have come up with and implemented stronger programs and frameworks to reduce carbon emissions while air travel is on the rise. It contributes to IATA, ATAG and ICAO’s “net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.”
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