United Airlines Commits to Sustainable Aviation Fuel at Chicago O’Hare
United Airlines has taken a significant step in sustainable aviation by being the first to secure a large-scale purchase of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) for its operations at Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD). This initiative involves the purchase of up to one million US gallons of SAF from Neste, a leader in SAF production. The first delivery is scheduled for August 2024, marking a pivotal moment in aviation sustainability efforts.
The commitment to SAF aligns with United Airlines’ ambitious goal to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, a target set without relying on voluntary carbon offsets. This purchase underscores United’s leadership in adopting cleaner fuel alternatives, having already topped the list of US airlines for sustainable fuel purchases in 2023.
Chicago O’Hare as a Hub for SAF: The integration of SAF at Chicago O’Hare, United’s largest hub, is part of a broader strategy that includes previous SAF purchases at other key airports such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, and international locations like London and Amsterdam. SAF is recognized for its potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 85% compared to conventional jet fuel, from production through to its final use. It is derived from renewable resources rather than traditional fossil fuels, offering a significant reduction in environmental impact while being compatible with existing aircraft and fuel infrastructure.
Support from Illinois State: The initiative has been bolstered by state-level support, with Illinois Governor JB Pritzker highlighting the role of SAF tax credits in facilitating this advancement at one of the US’s busiest airports. Governor Pritzker emphasized Illinois’ commitment to leading in sustainability and clean energy, which was instrumental in establishing favorable conditions for this significant environmental milestone.
Collaboration for Future Growth: United’s President, Brett Hart, pointed out the collaborative effort required to expand the SAF market, which is still in its early stages. The support from state and federal policymakers, including tax incentives and legislative backing, plays a crucial role in fostering the growth of SAF. U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth also expressed her ongoing advocacy for increased SAF production and use, which she views as essential for sustainable American aviation and support for domestic agriculture.
United Airlines is not only investing in SAF but is also enhancing its overall sustainability through various measures. These include the introduction of new, fuel-efficient aircraft such as the Boeing 787 Dreamliner and the Airbus A321neo, reducing onboard plastic use, and exploring alternative propulsion technologies. One of the groundbreaking investments includes a $600 million stake in eVTOL developer Archer Aviation, aiming to introduce a fleet of Midnight 6-seat air-taxi aircraft by 2025, post-certification.