- Southwest Airlines launches SARV venture arm for sustainable aviation fuel.
- SARV invests $30 million in leading SAF producer LanzaJet.
Southwest Airlines intensifies its commitment to sustainable aviation with the launch of Southwest Airlines Renewable Ventures (SARV). SARV’s primary objective is to secure sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) sources.
It recently made a significant investment of $30 million in LanzaJet, a leading SAF producer. Notably, LanzaJet recently inaugurated a groundbreaking ethanol-to-SAF refinery in Georgia. Which marked a pivotal advancement in the industry’s quest for sustainable alternatives to traditional jet fuel.
This strategic move underscores Southwest’s ambitious environmental targets. Including a pledge to replace 10% of its kerosene-based jet fuel consumption with SAF by 2030. Furthermore, the airline has committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
It is aligning itself with broader industry goals in combating climate change. Southwest’s CEO, Bob Jordan, emphasised the airline’s proactive approach. This includes stating that establishing SARV and investing in LanzaJet exemplify the company’s determination. To secure affordable SAF operation options.
As part of the investment agreement, LanzaJet will construct a refinery to produce SAF primarily for Southwest Airlines. Tom Nealon, former president of Southwest, has been appointed as the president of SARV.
Nealon also holds the CEO position at Saffire. Southwest supports a start-up dedicated to developing technology for converting corn crop residue into ethanol for subsequent SAF production. With these strategic investments and partnerships, Southwest Airlines commits to leading the aviation industry towards a more sustainable and environmentally responsible future.