- United Airlines became the first to buy sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) at O’Hare International Airport (ORD), with Nestle supplying up to 1 million gallons in 2024.
- SAF can cut greenhouse gas emissions by up to 85% and uses existing fuel infrastructure without modifying aircraft engines.
- Governor JB Pritzker and Senator Tammy Duckworth highlight Illinois’ SAF tax credits and federal efforts to increase the supply of SAFs, which supports sustainable aviation.
United Airlines has become the first to buy sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) at O’Hare International Airport (ORD). Starting later this month, Neste will provide United with up to 1 million gallons of Neste MY Sustainable Aviation Fuel in 2024.
United Airlines has set environmental goals, becoming the first to target net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. The airline committed to this goal without relying on voluntary carbon offsets. In 2023, United purchased more SAF than any other US airline. The new agreement with Nestle will make O’Hare the fifth airport where United uses SAF for operations.
Governor JB Pritzker joined the announcement at ORD and highlighted the role of Illinois’ SAF tax credits. “I have committed to making Illinois a leader in sustainability and clean energy,” Pritzker said. “Our state’s role as a hub of innovation aligns with United’s efforts toward a more sustainable aviation future.”
SAF offers an alternative to traditional jet fuel and can cut greenhouse gas emissions by up to 85% over its lifecycle. SAF, produced from renewable materials rather than fossil fuels, presents a significant solution for reducing aviation emissions. It uses existing fuel infrastructure and doesn’t require modifications to aircraft engines.
United Airlines President Brett Hart emphasized the importance of collaboration between airlines, innovation, and policy. “This is a significant step forward,” Hart said. “The SAF market is still emerging, but partnerships like this are crucial for its growth.” Illinois’ tax incentives for sustainable fuels enabled SAF at O’Hare.
United has now purchased SAF for its operations in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, London, and Amsterdam. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) supported the initiative, stressing the need for more SAF at the federal level. “We need more SAF to make American aviation more sustainable,” Duckworth said. “I’ll continue to push for more American-grown SAF.”
United funds part of the SAF through its Eco-Skies AllianceSM. This program allows participating companies to share the cost of lower-emission fuels. Since 2021, the alliance has contributed more than 10.5 million gallons of SAF. Members of the Eco-Skies Alliance include Autodesk, Bank of America, BCG, and Meta, among others.