A new research paper suggests that focusing sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) use on a select number of high-density long-haul routes could significantly drive the economic case for SAF and accelerate the development of commercial supply chains. The study, conducted by the American University of Sharjah and the UK’s Heriot-Watt University, proposes that establishing “green flightpaths” on these routes would not only showcase the economic viability of SAF but also stimulate large-scale investment required for the broader adoption of sustainable fuels in the aviation industry.
According to the paper, concentrating SAF use on specific, high-demand long-haul corridors—where the fuel’s environmental benefits and economic impact are most noticeable—could demonstrate its potential as a cost-effective solution for reducing carbon emissions in aviation. These routes, often between major global hubs, offer the necessary flight frequency and fuel volume to make SAF supply chains more efficient and financially feasible.
By focusing on a small but strategic subset of flightpaths, airlines and fuel producers could build momentum toward SAF commercialization. This concentrated use of sustainable fuel would help lower production costs, improve logistics, and pave the way for expanding SAF production to meet global aviation needs. The research suggests that such a model could effectively address one of the key barriers to SAF adoption: the high cost and logistical complexity of sourcing and distributing the fuel.
The paper highlights the importance of green flightpaths in proving SAF’s long-term economic and environmental benefits. By demonstrating SAF’s viability on densely trafficked routes, it could encourage further investment in SAF infrastructure, innovation, and policy support, ultimately leading to more widespread use of the fuel across the aviation industry.
This strategic approach, according to the study, could play a critical role in achieving the aviation sector’s sustainability goals, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and ensuring that the industry remains on track to meet international climate targets. As governments and airlines seek to accelerate their environmental efforts, focusing on green flightpaths could be an effective pathway to drive the aviation sector’s transition to a more sustainable future.
