China launches SAF pilot programme

China's National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) and the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) have launched a pilot programme to support the uptake of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) in China.

The SAF pilot programme will have two phases, the authorities announced on 18 September at the launch ceremony in Beijing.

During the first stage from 19 September to December 2024, Air China, China Eastern Airlines, and China Southern Airlines will refuel with SAF-blended jet fuel on 12 flights departing from Beijing Daxing International Airport, Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport, Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport, and Ningbo Lishe International Airport. The SAF blend ratio planned for each flight was not disclosed.

The second pilot stage will take place in 2025 with an increased number of participants, but it was not disclosed which firms will be participating.

SAF used during the pilot programme must meet fuel standards set by CAAC to guarantee safety.

China has been trying to develop SAF in the domestic market, with a consumption target of 50,000t set in the 14th Five-Year-Plan. Chinese aircraft manufacturer Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (Comac) completed its first demonstration flight using jet fuel blended with 40pc SAF in June. The Development Research Center for Sustainable Aviation Fuel was then established in July to lead the development of a Chinese certification system and promote technological progress in the domestic SAF industry.