New Platform Aims to Standardize, Track, and Scale SAF Transactions Worldwide

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has unveiled the Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Registry, a global tracking system designed to accelerate the adoption of low-carbon aviation fuels. This initiative aims to connect buyers and sellers, track SAF transactions, and ensure transparency in environmental benefits, helping airlines and corporate customers meet their carbon reduction goals.

SAF: A Key Tool for Aviation Decarbonization

Aviation fuel is the primary source of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the industry. SAF, derived from waste oils, agricultural residues, and other sustainable sources, can cut lifecycle emissions by up to 85% compared to conventional jet fuels.

Despite its potential, SAF adoption faces two major hurdles:

Low supply – SAF accounted for just 0.3% of global jet fuel production in 2024, despite production doubling to 1 million tonnes (1.3 billion liters) from the previous year.
High costs – SAF remains significantly more expensive than fossil-based alternatives, limiting widespread adoption.

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How the SAF Registry Works

Developed in collaboration with airlines, government bodies, fuel producers, and corporate travel firms, the SAF Registry will:

Record SAF transactions in a standardized and transparent way.
Track environmental attributes of SAF across the supply chain.
Prevent double counting of emissions reductions.
Enable regulatory and corporate climate claims linked to SAF use.
Connect airlines with SAF suppliers worldwide, making SAF access easier.

Additionally, the registry is technology- and feedstock-neutral, supporting diverse SAF production methods.

Early Adoption and Industry Impact

The first 30 users are already onboarding the system. According to Marie Owens Thomsen, IATA’s Senior VP of Sustainability and Chief Economist:

“While this is of fundamental importance and a historically momentous advance, it is but one step along the way to a mature, transparent, and liquid global SAF market. The Registry cannot produce miracles on its own, but without it, no miracles can be produced.”

By creating a more structured SAF market, IATA hopes to drive investment, scale production, and make SAF a mainstream aviation fuel alternative in the near future.

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