The Ministry of Civil Aviation, in partnership with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and with support from the European Union, has released the much-awaited Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Feasibility Report for India. The report outlines a detailed roadmap for India to become a global leader in SAF production and use, aiming to decarbonize the aviation sector while boosting rural incomes and reducing fuel imports.

Union Civil Aviation Minister Shri Ram Mohan Naidu launched the report at a workshop in New Delhi, attended by key stakeholders including ICAO, DGCA, EASA, industry leaders, and multiple government departments.

SAF: A Practical Solution for Green Aviation

Speaking at the event, Minister Naidu called Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) a “practical and immediate solution to decarbonize the aviation sector.” He highlighted SAF’s ability to reduce lifecycle carbon emissions by up to 80% compared to traditional jet fuel.

India plans to achieve 1% blending by 2027, 2% by 2028, and 5% by 2030, in line with the global CORSIA mandate. The minister emphasized that SAF will not only cut emissions but also help India reduce crude oil imports and create a new value chain for agricultural waste and biomass.

India’s Strong Feedstock Potential

India generates over 750 million metric tonnes of biomass and nearly 230 million metric tonnes of surplus agricultural residue every year. The feasibility study confirms that this is enough to meet domestic SAF demand and even allow India to emerge as an exporter of green fuels.

The Minister noted that SAF adoption could reduce emissions by 20–25 million tonnes annually while increasing farmers’ incomes by creating new demand for agricultural residue.

First SAF Certification and Refinery Milestones

India has already achieved significant milestones in SAF adoption. COTECNA Inspection India Pvt. Ltd. has been designated as the country’s first SAF certification body. Additionally, Indian Oil Corporation’s Panipat Refinery has been certified as India’s first SAF production facility.

These developments set the foundation for scaling up domestic SAF production and ensuring global acceptance of India’s SAF exports.

Whole-of-Government Approach to Green Aviation

The SAF roadmap was discussed at a workshop, with participation from ICAO, EASA, DGCA, and industry stakeholders. Secretary of Civil Aviation Shri Samir Kumar Sinha stressed that India is committed to the UNFCCC framework and already operates one of the youngest and most fuel-efficient aircraft fleets in the world. He also pointed out that 88 airports have already shifted to 100% green energy usage, making India a global leader in sustainable airport operations.

India’s Aviation Growth and SAF Policy Framework

Director General of Civil Aviation Shri Faiz Ahmed highlighted India’s position as the third-largest aviation market, with passenger traffic expected to reach 500 million by 2030. He said the SAF Feasibility Report will play a key role in shaping India’s national SAF policy, ensuring that sustainability is integrated into the country’s aviation growth.

With strong feedstock supply, growing demand for low-carbon fuels, and international collaboration, the report positions India as a future hub for global SAF production.

Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, India has set an ambitious path to build a robust SAF ecosystem. The SAF Feasibility Report provides a clear roadmap for blending targets, certification, infrastructure, and farmer participation.

By combining policy readiness, domestic feedstock strength, and international best practices, India is now well-positioned to become a global leader in sustainable aviation fuels, reducing emissions, cutting imports, and powering the future of green aviation.