The Challenge of Decarbonizing Aviation: Cost and Time Implications

The aviation industry is under increasing pressure to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, with sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) seen as the best hope to achieve net zero emissions by 2050. However, SAF accounts for just 0.1% of all jet fuel and is much more expensive. Critics say airlines are making overly ambitious promises and exaggerating how quickly they can ramp up the use of SAF. The limited supply means that airlines fear the cost will eventually trickle down to passengers in the form of higher ticket prices. Meanwhile, startups are working on electric-powered aircraft, but they won't catch on as quickly as electric vehicles.