Sustainable Fuel to be Delivered in Every 10th Shipment

Sedona, Arizona's local airport authority has snatched up a line to start offering locals sustainable aviation fuel via provider Avfuel Corporation, with plans to sell it out of Sedona Airport's Red Rock Aviation.

The move will be a first for the state, fueling local tourism, general aviation, and firefighting operations as needed. The first truck from Avfuel arrived in early June, providing Red Rock's FBO with 8,000 gallons to start off with. Under current plans, they'll get a fresh load of SAF from the distributor about every 2 months, or every 10th fuel delivery. That puts Sedona on a pretty limited map, since so few facilities have been able to dedicate a tank to SAF on the premises. It stands to reason given Sedona's upscale clientele, or apparently so for its landing fees. Those passing through with something able to munch on SAF will find a cozy little FBO at Red Rock, though out-of-towners may be surprised at the "California pricing" that seems to afflict much of Arizona state. 

The SAF comes courtesy of Neste's MY Sustainable Aviation Fuel product, using a cut of 70% petroleum stock and 30% waste materials and fats. Each load will provide a 19-ton reduction in carbon emissions compared to straight Jet A. Neste can produce about 1 million tons of fuel across its worldwide facilities, with expectations to grow it out to 1.5 million with additional capacity coming online in the Netherlands. 

It's still a little bit of trouble to source enough waste oil from cooking and run-off animal fats, so the firm is experimenting with alternative feedstocks for additional SAF in the future. Currently, they're working on municipal solid wastes, algae, and more esoteric pathways like power-to-liquids and lignocellulosic materials. 

The Sedona-Oak Creek Airport Authority's airport manager Ed Rose said the change was a welcome one, around his favorite stomping ground. “We are excited to incorporate SAF into our growing list of sustainability initiatives. SAF is a safe, proven and sustainable blend of jet fuel that will help the Sedona Airport be a good neighbor and do its part to reduce the overall production of greenhouse gasses.”

FMI: www.sedonaairport.org