Scandinavian Airlines calls for policy action to unlock eSAF potential in Europe

Photo: Scandinavian Airlines

As a leading member of Project SkyPower, Scandinavian Airlines has joined 75 aviation and energy stakeholders in calling for urgent policy support to accelerate the development of eSAF—sustainable aviation fuel made from green hydrogen and CO2—in the EU.

In a newly signed open letter from Project SkyPower, these organizations highlight the transformative potential of eSAF to enhance energy resilience, strengthen Europe’s industrial base, and support aviation’s future climate goals.

Produced using clean electricity, eSAF could create approximately 20,000 high-value jobs by 2050 and reinforce Europe’s position as a leader in cleantech innovation.

With a projected global market of more than 350-billion euros (USD$366.6 billion) and the capacity to reduce aviation emissions by 400 million tons annually, eSAF represents a crucial step toward achieving the EU’s sustainability and industrial ambitions.

In addition, this will drive much-needed demand for energy from renewable sources like wind, hydro and solar power, according to Scandinavian Airlines.

Despite strong industry interest, investment barriers and regulatory uncertainties have stalled eSAF production, with no facility yet reaching final-investment decision (FID), according to the airline.

To unlock its potential, Scandinavian Airlines, industry leaders and energy stakeholders urge the EU to implement five key policy measures:

• Prioritize eSAF in the clean industrial deal and sustainable-transport investment plan.

• Recycle Emissions Trading System revenues to fund a market intermediary that secures revenue certainty and mitigates price risks.

• Introduce a bridging mechanism in 2025 to support early adopters before long-term policy frameworks take effect.

• Ensure regulatory certainty on mandates, production criteria and penalties to encourage investment.

• Establish a government-backed backstop mechanism to mitigate project-on-project risk and facilitate financing.

“Scandinavian Airlines is committed to forging a path to a sustainable future, where innovation and shared responsibility drive progress for both our planet and our societies,” said Anko van der Werff, the president and CEO of Scandinavian Airlines.

“eSAF is a critical part of the solution, but industry efforts alone are not enough—decisive policy action is needed to scale up eSAF production, drive real industry change and solidify Europe’s leadership in sustainable aviation,” Van der Werff added.

According to Scandinavian Airlines, implementing these measures will unlock investment, scale eSAF production and ensure Europe leads the way in aviation sustainability.