Amid Increasing Gas Prices, President Looks Biofuel Production for Energy Independence

President Biden issued a show of support for Sustainable Aviation Fuel, reiterating its position as a vital part of the aviation industry's ecological goals going forward. 

SAF is a key part of achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050, allowing the industry to continue operations and services without the deleterious effects of normal, virgin feedstock petroleum. In his remarks at a biofuel processing plane in Menlo, Iowa, Biden highlighted the potential for SAF to bring about domestically-produced energy sources to decarbonize the aviation sector while creating a series of highly technical employment opportunities throughout the industry. 

Specifically, his administration has announced the SAF Grand Challenge, as well as a goal of pumping out 3 billion gallons of domestically produced SAF by 2030. The admin has also extended a Blenders Tax Credit, intended to kick start and incentivize production. Along with his remarks, he announced an emergency waiver to allow the use of 15% ethanol blends for mogas in an effort to shave some cost off of the average tank of gas. Increasing ethanol production is one of the primary tools in the administration's arsenal for becoming energy independent without relying on traditional petroleum stocks. The NATA highlighted Biden's remarks, finding his support heartening at a time when the industry can use the help in securing its future.

“Business aviation has consistently signaled its commitment to achieving net zero emissions. President Biden’s remarks validate our efforts and confirm the collective voice of the industry is being heard at the highest levels. SAF is viable, drop-in, and critical to creating an indelible link between aviation and sustainability,” stated NATA President and CEO Timothy Obitts. “The National Air Transportation Association thanks the Administration for its dedication and calls on Congress to act swiftly on legislation that creates a dedicated SAF Blenders Tax Credit–the next step in providing much-needed and much-anticipated sustainable fuel to our industry.”

FMI: www.nata.aero, www.whitehouse.gov