#Sustainability20: Beyond Aero reveals redesign of hydrogen-electric business jet & more
Weekly Roundup - 21/03/25
Each Friday, we publish a round-up of the 20 most important stories on sustainable aviation. You can see previous editions of #Sustainability20 here.
Industry Updates
IATA has enhanced its CO2 Connect emissions calculator to include SAF-related reductions, improving transparency for passengers and corporates. Over 60 airlines now contribute data, boosting accuracy and supporting aviation decarbonisation efforts.
CLIMATE WATCH: Earth’s 10 Hottest Years on Record Are the Last 10 - The New York Times
The past decade was the hottest on record, with 2024 surpassing 2023 as the warmest year. The WMO reported global temperatures 1.55°C above preindustrial levels, driven by rising greenhouse gas emissions.
Infrastructure and operational efficiencies
Star Alliance is partnering with Austria’s ÖBB to integrate rail and air travel, offering seamless connections between Austrian cities and global destinations. The collaboration includes single-ticket bookings and frequent flyer points for train journeys.
SkyCell has launched Net ZERO Reverse with Emirates SkyCargo, reducing CO2 emissions by over 90% by using ocean freight for container returns. The initiative aims to make pharma supply chains more sustainable and cost-effective.
Brussels Airport has accelerated its net-zero target to 2030, installing solar panels and replacing its central heating plant. The airport is also partnering with DHL and Shell to supply SAF, cutting emissions in air freight operations.
ADR Mobility has introduced 11 electric shuttles at Fiumicino and Ciampino airports, powered by renewable energy. The initiative supports ADR’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2030.
Swedavia reported a positive operating income in 2024, driven by increased passenger volumes and investments in SAF. The company aims to achieve fossil-free aviation, with four airports certified at the highest carbon accreditation level.
Dubai Aerospace Enterprise is investing $1 billion to acquire 17 next-generation aircraft, reducing fleet age and improving efficiency. The acquisition includes Airbus and Boeing models, leased to airlines across 10 countries.
Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)
Airbus, JAL, and partners have signed an MoU to produce SAF from domestically sourced wood biomass in Japan.
Farnborough Airport has signed a letter of intent with Hydrogen Refinery to purchase 3.3 million gallons of SAF annually. The agreement aims to make Farnborough the first airport to offer a 20% SAF blend by 2028.
Airbus Canada’s Mirabel site began using SAF for production and test flights, joining all Airbus commercial assembly sites globally. The initiative supports Airbus’ goal of 100% SAF capability by 2030.
Syntholene Energy has secured 20 MW of geothermal power for the world’s first geothermally-powered eSAF plant. The facility will produce synthetic kerosene, leveraging geothermal heat and electricity for fuel synthesis.
SAS is partnering with Alpine World Cup Åre 2025 to provide SAF for athletes and passengers, reducing emissions for the event. The initiative aims to make travel for international sporting events more sustainable.
Virgin Australia has signed an agreement with Viva Energy to source SAF for flights from Proserpine, Queensland. The partnership supports the airline’s efforts to reduce emissions and achieve net-zero by 2050.
Elyse Energy and ATOBA Energy signed an MoU to accelerate SAF production in France. The partnership includes a feasibility study to evaluate economic factors and pricing strategies for SAF deployment.
Neste is raising €700 million in green bonds to expand its Rotterdam refinery, aiming to produce 1.2 million tons of SAF annually by 2026. The expansion supports the company’s renewable fuel production goals.
New technology: Electric and Hydrogen
Beyond Aero has redesigned its hydrogen-powered business jet, increasing fuel cell capacity and improving crashworthiness. The BYA-1 aircraft, set for 2030, aims to reduce operating costs by 55% compared to traditional jets.
Electra has received 2,200 pre-orders for its EL9 hybrid-electric aircraft, totalling nearly $9 billion. The aircraft’s ultra-short takeoff capabilities aim to reduce costs and emissions for regional air mobility.
Joby Aviation is partnering with Virgin Atlantic to launch air taxi services in the UK, starting with routes from Heathrow and Manchester. The collaboration aims to offer zero-emission, short-range journeys by 2025.
Doroni Aerospace has secured up to $180 million in funding to produce its H1-X eVTOL aircraft in Saudi Arabia. The company aims to certify the aircraft as a light-sport model under FAA regulations.
Beta Technologies has completed a series of flights across Utah, showcasing its Alia eVTOL aircraft’s potential to reduce travel times and improve connectivity. The initiative supports Utah’s goal of integrating AAM by 2034.
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