- The RAF has integrated sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) into routine operations, marking the first use of blended SAF in UK military aviation.
- RAF Lossiemouth, a critical air station, now receives millions of litres of SAF, which powers Typhoon and Poseidon aircraft on essential defence missions.
- The RAF’s adoption of SAF aligns with the Ministry of Defence’s broader commitment to reducing carbon emissions while maintaining national security and operational capability.
The Royal Air Force (RAF) uses sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) in its routine operations, marking a first in UK military history. Aircraft like the Typhoon and Poseidon, based at RAF Lossiemouth, fly with a blend of conventional jet fuel and SAF as they continue defending the UK and its allies.
Between November 2023 and February 2024, the RAF received four million litres of SAF through a contract with World Fuel Services. The contract ensures another 5.15 million litres will arrive between July and October 2024. This fuel powers aircraft at RAF Lossiemouth, one of the UK’s busiest stations, and supports Typhoon jets on 24/7 standby for the Quick Reaction Alert.
The RAF sources SAF from hydrogenated fats and oils, wood waste, alcohols, sugars, household waste, biomass, and algae. With aviation making up nearly two-thirds of the fuel used in UK defence, the RAF’s adoption of SAF reflects the Ministry of Defence’s commitment to cutting carbon emissions while ensuring national security.
After updating aviation fuel standards in 2020 to allow up to 50% SAF in fuel mixes, the RAF began trialling various sustainable fuels. In November 2021, an RAF pilot flew a microlight aircraft powered by synthetic fuel created from air and water. In 2022, the RAF tested synthetic kerosene derived from genetically modified bacteria in drones and flew an electric aircraft at RAF Cranwell.
In November 2022, the RAF made history by flying a Voyager aircraft for 90 minutes using 100% SAF. This event marked the first time a wide-bodied military aircraft flew on SAF. Airbus, AirTanker, Rolls-Royce, and Air BP collaborated with the RAF on this flight, showcasing SAF’s potential in military aviation.
In 2023, the RAF continued its SAF initiatives by achieving the first air-to-air refuelling of a Typhoon and C-130 Hercules using a SAF blend. The RAF also displayed a Typhoon powered by blended SAF at the Royal International Air Tattoo, marking the first public demonstration of this technology.
These initiatives by the RAF drive the broader adoption of SAF in the aviation industry. In 2023, Virgin Atlantic’s Government-funded transatlantic flight used SAF, demonstrating the technology’s potential in civilian aviation.
The RAF’s commitment to SAF forms part of a more significant effort to reduce carbon emissions in defence. By adopting SAF, the RAF significantly advances its sustainability goals without compromising operational capabilities. As the RAF continues exploring new fuel technologies, it sets a precedent for sustainable aviation in both military and civilian sectors.