Airbus and the CSIR-Indian Institute of Petroleum (CSIR-IIP) have recently formalized their collaboration by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This strategic partnership is geared towards exploring innovative technology pathways and testing indigenous Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) in India.
In addressing the carbon reduction goals of the Indian aerospace industry, both entities will collaborate on various fronts, including the development of SAF through a new HEFA technology pathway and utilizing locally sourced feedstocks. The scope of their joint efforts encompasses technical assessments, approvals, market access, and sustainability accreditation initiatives to propel the production of SAF within the region. The MoU was facilitated with the active support and guidance from the office of the Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India, Prof Ajay Sood.
Prof Sood emphasized the pivotal role of his office in fostering the industrialization of indigenous emerging technologies with a social impact. Recognizing the significance of decarbonization for the aviation sector, he underscored SAF as a viable solution, with scaling up being a crucial aspect. The collaboration between CSIR-IIP and Airbus is positioned to unlock this potential and position India as a significant SAF producer on the global stage.
Rémi Maillard, President and Managing Director of Airbus India and South Asia, highlighted SAF as a key pillar in Airbus’ decarbonization roadmap. Expressing confidence in India’s capacity to evolve into a global SAF production hub, he affirmed Airbus’s commitment to advancing this potential. The MoU with CSIR-IIP marks a significant stride towards achieving the ambitious goal of decarbonizing the aviation sector.
Dr Harender Singh Bisht, Director of CSIR-IIP, emphasized the aviation sector’s heightened CO2 reduction targets, aiming for Net-Zero carbon emissions by 2050. SAF, particularly the variant developed by CSIR-IIP, stands out as a pivotal element in achieving this goal. Dr Bisht acknowledged the challenges in scaling up production and addressing cost differentials between SAF and conventional jet fuel. Both CSIR-IIP and Airbus expressed their joint commitment to collaborate, communicate, and promote SAF usage as a critical solution for reducing aviation emissions.
Presently, all Airbus aircraft are certified to operate on a 50% SAF blend, with a steadfast goal to achieve 100% SAF capability by 2030. Airbus and CSIR-IIP are poised to contribute significantly to this endeavor, ultimately aiming to eliminate the dependence on fossil fuels. CSIR-IIP will delve into studying fuel properties under the new pathway and their impact, while Airbus will provide guidance on the fuel evaluation process, sharing invaluable insights into fuel testing and aircraft systems.
