Aeroméxico Targets 5% Sustainable Aviation Fuel by 2030

This article was updated to reflect the correct SAF amount specified by Aeroméxico. 

Aeroméxico aims for 5% of its aviation fuel to be sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) by 2030. This target includes achieving 20% of this SAF from domestic production within Mexico.

According to Aeroméxico’s 2023 Sustainability Report, the airline is actively pursuing strategies to enhance its fuel-saving program and sustainable operations. The report details various initiatives aimed at evaluating and optimizing the performance of its Boeing and Embraer fleets. These initiatives also include implementing aerodynamic improvements to its equipment and operations on the ground.

“We know that the main environmental impact of the aviation sector is climate change. Therefore, we have defined a roadmap for net zero emissions, envisioning leadership in Latin America. This includes increasing SAF usage to 95% by 2050, with most decarbonization occurring in the 2040s,” stated Aeroméxico in their report.

The airline’s sustainability vision focuses on accelerating three fundamental pillars: progressively reducing emissions to achieve net zero by 2050, strengthening social commitments, and implementing corporate governance practices that promote transparency.

Aeroméxico acknowledges the challenges it faces in transitioning to alternative fuels. Currently, SAF is two to three times more expensive than traditional aviation fuel. Additionally, there are technological, financial, operational, and logistical barriers, such as limited production methods, investment schemes, and scarcity of raw materials.

To address these challenges, Aeroméxico is committed to collaborating with key stakeholders to create an ecosystem that supports the viability of SAF production and commercialization in Mexico. By doing so, the airline aims to ensure that 5% of its aviation fuel will be sustainable by 2030, purchased from markets where it operates to reduce carbon emissions.

The 2023 Sustainability Report highlights Aeroméxico's substantial environmental achievements. The airline has successfully avoided the emission of more than 1.3 million tons of CO2 by modernizing its fleet with more efficient aircraft and adopting sustainable operational practices. Additionally, it has implemented recycling and waste management programs both on board and at its ground facilities.