- Oman’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) is developing policies to support Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) as part of the country’s 2050 net-zero emissions goal.
- A task force formed after Oman’s first Sustainable Aviation Fuel Forum will drive SAF development, unlock economic opportunities, and support SMEs.
- Companies like OQ are advancing SAF projects, with plans to begin product trials in the coming years, while airports and airlines collaborate to integrate sustainable fuels.
Oman’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) is developing new policies to boost the production and use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) as part of the country’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. Eng Naif bin Ali al Abri, President of the CAA, confirmed that the authority is actively working on fuel regulations to advance the SAF agenda.
“We are drafting several policies and regulations. Our goal is to lead in SAF development and contribute to global aviation sustainability,” Al Abri said during an interview with *The Observer* at a Youth Center event.
Following the first Sustainable Aviation Fuel Forum held in Oman last year, the CAA formed a task force to focus on building the SAF sector. This forum, organised in partnership with the Ministry of Energy and Minerals, OQ, and Petroleum Development Oman (PDO), brought together global stakeholders, including the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).
The task force will drive Oman’s SAF industry, with Al Abri highlighting the economic benefits it could unlock, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). “The SAF sector has the potential to create economic opportunities and support SME growth,” he said.
Several companies, including OQ, are already progressing with SAF development projects. OQ appointed a consultant to guide the development of low-carbon and sustainable fuels. “We hope to start product trials within the next few years,” Al Abri added.
The CAA stresses the importance of working closely with airlines and airports to ensure sustainable fuels enter Oman’s aviation industry. Muscat and Salalah airports will be crucial in integrating these new fuels into daily operations. “We need to coordinate with airlines and airports to secure the uptake of these fuels,” Al Abri emphasised.
Oman’s move toward SAF aligns with the global effort to reduce carbon emissions in aviation. The CAA’s actions will position Oman as a leader in the regional shift to sustainable fuel options.
The CAA’s policies also aim to meet international standards and attract investment into the SAF sector. Major players, such as the Ministry of Energy and PDO, drive local support, while collaboration with ICAO ensures that Oman remains aligned with global aviation standards.
Al Abri expressed confidence in Oman’s future SAF production and usage role. He believes the current steps will help the country become a regional pioneer in sustainable aviation. This focus on sustainability will set an example for other countries in the region.
The formation of the task force and the CAA’s ongoing policy development represent significant steps toward building a strong SAF industry. The initiative offers economic growth and environmental benefits, marking an important milestone in Oman’s sustainability journey.
By fostering collaboration among energy companies, regulators, and the aviation sector, Oman is on track to impact the transition to green aviation significantly.