100% Paraffinic SAF Compatibility Collaboration
Paving the way for 100% SAF integration across aerospace and defense.
Introduction
Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) is essential for achieving the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) goal of net-zero aviation emissions by 2050. Beyond ICAO, the commercial aviation industry aims for aircraft to be fully compatible with 100% SAF, with the defense sector also pursuing SAF integration.
SAF production methods are evolving, with two primary pathways defined for this group’s focus:
Drop-In: 100% synthetic aviation fuel
Non-Drop-In: 100% paraffinic, aromatic-free synthetic
aviation fuel
Meet the Leaders
William Griffin
Lead
Boeing
Jey Williams
Deputy Lead
Airbus
Purpose
- IAEG’s Work Group 13 (WG13) evaluates the compatibility of Non-Drop-In fuels with current aircraft structures and systems and assesses industry readiness for a wider range of fuels beyond those being considered by ASTM International. Additionally, WG13 will monitor ASTM’s efforts to approve standards for 100% Synthetic “Drop-In” SAF fuels to inform OEMs about these fuel pathways, their benefits, and impacts.
Benefits
- Assess existing aircraft compatibility with Non-Drop-In fuels
- Evaluate industry readiness for diverse SAFs
- Identify industry gaps for 100% Non-Drop-In fuel use
- Inform OEMs on 100% Drop-In SAF standards
Initial Obiectives
- Review current data on 100% Non-Drop-In SAF to identify industry gaps
- Evaluate materials, systems, and parts for 100% Non-Drop-In SAF compatibility
- Coordinate 100% Non-Drop-In SAF testing among aircraft, engine, and system stakeholders
- Support ASTM subcommittees in developing 100%SAF standards
- Develop an industry-wide vision for SAF deployment and technology adoption
Pending Deliverables
Technical Considerations and Impact Assessment
Develop broad technical considerations for SAF, tailored to specific subgroups (e.g., aircraft, communication), and assess their associated impacts.
Specification Monitoring Report
Monitor and report on the development of Drop-In and Non-Drop-In SAF specifications to keep stakeholders informed.
Industry Framework for SAF Ecosystem
Develop and maintain a comprehensive framework that outlines roles and interactions among key industry stakeholders, including airports, airlines, fuel producers, and logistics providers.
Standardized SAF Definition
Establish common definitions for SAF across commercial and defense sectors and related infrastructure to ensure clarity and reduce confusion.
Stakeholder Communication Framework
Support consistent communication strategies with external stakeholders and aviation ecosystems to promote alignment and information sharing.
R&D Collaboration and Publication
Initiate and coordinate technical research and development projects on 100% Non-Drop-In SAF, and publish findings to advance industry knowledge and adoption.