RT team
Airbus and the CSIR-Indian Institute of Petroleum (CSIR-IIP) have solidified their partnership with a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to drive Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) innovation in India. Together, they will explore innovative SAF production methods, focusing on HEFA technology and locally sourced feedstocks. Their collaboration spans technical assessments, approvals, market access, and sustainability accreditation, aimed at boosting SAF production in India. Prof Ajay Sood, Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India, played a pivotal role in facilitating this MoU.
Prof Sood stressed the importance of indigenous emerging technologies with social impact, especially in decarbonizing aviation. Rémi Maillard, President and Managing Director of Airbus India and South Asia, highlighted SAF’s role in Airbus’ decarbonization roadmap and expressed confidence in India becoming a global SAF production hub. Dr Harender Singh Bisht, Director of CSIR-IIP, emphasized the aviation sector’s CO2 reduction targets and the vital role of SAF in achieving them. Both organizations are committed to promoting SAF as a solution to aviation emissions.
Airbus aims to make its aircraft 100% SAF capable by 2030, with all current models certified for 50% SAF blends. Airbus and CSIR-IIP are working together to eliminate fossil fuel dependency, contributing significantly to this endeavor. CSIR-IIP will study fuel properties in the new pathway, while Airbus will provide guidance on fuel evaluation and aircraft systems.
