Firefly to use Altaca HTL technology for planned UK ‘wet-to-jet’ SAF facility

Photo: Firefly

Firefly announced May 20 that it has signed a partnership deal with Turkish engineering firm Altaca, providing key technology for the firm’s planned U.K. facility.

The Bristol-based developer, which uses treated human sewage (biosolids) as a feedstock, said it now possesses all the necessary components to scale production and lead the effort to decarbonize the aviation industry.

Under the terms of the agreement, Altaca will supply Firefly with its CatLiq hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) technology.

This specialized technology is used to convert sewage sludge into crude oil, representing a crucial “upstream” step in the biofuel production process.

This solution serves as the final link in the supply chain, enabling Firefly to scale its innovative “wet-to-jet” platform and provide sustainable, affordable fuel for an industry facing significant cost and regulatory challenges.

Firefly will source raw material for its first project from U.K. water companies, addressing large-scale waste-disposal challenges.

While Chevron Lummus Global provides technology for downstream refining, the fast-growing airline Wizz Air has already secured a 15-year offtake agreement for the finished fuel.

The partnership with Altaca ensures that this highly sought alternative to fossil jet fuel can be produced locally, remaining unaffected by global supply instabilities.

Reflecting a strong Anglo-Turkish collaboration in science, engineering and industry, the deal was signed during a ceremony at the British Embassy in Ankara hosted by the British Ambassador to Turkey, Jill Morris.

The event was attended by prominent figures, including Mahmut Gürcan, the deputy minister of trade.

The agreement was finalized by Firefly co-founders James Hygate (CEO) and Paul Hilditch (strategy director) alongside Altaca co-founders Alper Önoğlu (president) and Taner Önoğlu (vice president).

“We’ve looked around the world and undertaken extensive testing to find the best-in-class supplier for this key technology—and we found it in Altaca,” Hygate said. “Firefly exists to combat climate change by decarbonizing aviation. With all the pieces now in place, we have an end-to-end platform and a new category of waste-to-fuels infrastructure. We can now get to work on saving carbon by the gigaton.”

Onoglu added, “At Altaca, we are thrilled that our HTL technology has been recognized as the final, crucial link in Firefly’s innovative supply chain. Our engineering solution provides the essential upstream step required to transform sewage sludge into high-quality biocrude oil, enabling the production of truly sustainable aviation fuel. This partnership is a testament to our commitment to engineering excellence and our shared vision of decarbonizing the aviation industry on a global scale.”