Airbus and Qantas sign US$200 million Australian Sustainable Aviation Fuel Partnership

European planemaker Airbus and the Qantas Group have agreed to invest US$200 million (£164 million) in Australian-developed and -produced feedstock and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) initiatives, called the Australian Sustainable Aviation Fuel Partnership.

As Australia currently lacks a commercial-scale SAF industry the partnership’s aim is also to help Qantas Group achieve its goal of introducing 10% SAF into its overall fuel mix by 2030. The partnership has come about through Qantas’ recent orders for Airbus A350-1000s for the Australian carrier’s Project Sunrise non-stop flights to both New York and London, as well as the Group’s Project Winston domestic fleet renewal involving A220 and A321XLR jets. The new fleet should immediately reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions by 25% for both Qantas Airlines and its subsidiary Jetstar.

The partnership is initially for five years with options to extend the duration. Qantas’ financial contribution to the Australian Sustainable Aviation Fuel Partnership includes AU$50 million previously committed to research and development of SAF in Australia.

Pratt & Whitney, whose GTF engines were recently selected by Qantas for its new A220 and A320neo-family aircraft, is also contributing to the venture. The company supports greater use of cleaner, alternative fuels including SAF, while continually advancing the efficiency of aircraft propulsion technology.

Qantas Group CEO Alan Joyce stated that the investment will accelerate the development of SAF in Australia, creating value for both companies’ shareholders while also creating jobs and reducing the nation’s dependence on imported fossil fuels. “The use of SAF is increasing globally as governments and industry work together to find ways to decarbonise the aviation sector. Without swift action, Australia is at risk of being left behind,” Joyce commented.