In a significant advancement for sustainable aviation, California’s Governor Gavin Newsom has announced a transformative partnership between the state and Airlines for America (A4A) aimed at increasing the availability of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). This collaboration is set to achieve a remarkable target of producing 200 million gallons of SAF by 2035, which is projected to meet approximately 40% of the state’s intrastate travel demand; currently, the usage levels are more than ten times lower.
Governor Newsom emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “California and the aviation industry are joining forces to tackle emissions head-on. We’ve put the tools in place to incentivize cleaner fuels and spur innovation, creating opportunities like this to radically change how Californians can travel cleaner.” This commitment reflects a broader strategy to cut pollution and foster a sustainable future.
This partnership is facilitated by California’s Low Carbon Fuel Standard program, highlighting the state’s ongoing efforts to reduce carbon emissions while promoting cleaner alternatives in transportation.
The California Air Resources Board (CARB) Chair Liane Randolph remarked, “California is once again demonstrating that smart climate action is good for the environment and good for business.” She highlighted the collaboration’s role in advancing cleaner fuel options, asserting that it would accelerate the development and promote cleaner air travel throughout the state.
Key aspects of the partnership include the collaborative production and availability of SAF, the development of supportive policies and incentives for investment in SAF, and the establishment of an SAF Working Group to monitor progress and overcome challenges in reaching the targets.
Kevin Welsh, A4A’s Vice President of Environmental Affairs, reiterated this commitment, expressing excitement for the partnership. He stated, “This partnership reflects the type of collaboration between government and the private sector that is necessary to achieve ambitious climate goals.”
With major airlines such as Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, and Delta Air Lines involved, this partnership sets a crucial precedent for the aviation industry’s transition toward sustainability, aligning with California’s climate objectives and paving the way for cleaner air travel on a national scale.