Jet2.com Expands Sustainable Aviation Fuel Use to Stansted in 2024

Jet2.com announces the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) at London Stansted, advancing its commitment to decarbonize aviation and prepare for the UK's upcoming SAF mandate.

Jet2.com, the UK's third largest airline, has revealed plans to incorporate Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) at London Stansted Airport in 2024, marking a significant step in its sustainability journey. This move follows the airline's recent announcement of using SAF at Bristol Airport, making it one of the pioneers in the industry almost a year ahead of the UK government’s SAF mandate set for 2025.

Approximately 650 tonnes of SAF have been purchased from Shell Aviation, allowing Jet2.com to implement a 1% SAF blend for several departing flights from London Stansted this year. SAF has been recognized for its potential to reduce lifecycle carbon emissions by up to 80% compared to conventional jet fuel when used in its pure form.

Neil Robinson, MAG CSR and Future Airspace Director, praised Jet2.com’s initiative, emphasizing the importance of SAF in achieving net zero carbon operations by 2038 at London Stansted. He expressed enthusiasm for further collaboration to enhance sustainability efforts.

Steve Heapy, CEO of Jet2.com and Jet2holidays, highlighted the strategic importance of SAF in their operations. “We view SAF as crucial in helping the aviation industry decarbonize. Starting with a 1% blend is just the beginning, and we aim to increase this proportion in the future,” he stated. Heapy also called for earlier governmental support to boost the UK SAF industry, emphasizing the need to reduce costs and increase supply to ensure the competitiveness of UK airlines and holidaymakers.

Additionally, Jet2.com has made significant investments in a new SAF production plant in the North West of England, which is expected to produce over 200 million litres of SAF upon becoming operational. This facility, developed by Fulcrum BioEnergy Ltd, is set to generate up to 1,500 jobs and support local and national economic growth.

Jet2.com’s sustainability strategy also includes a transition to more fuel-efficient aircraft, with the airline having already received seven of its ordered Airbus A320/A321 neo aircraft. Further enhancing its commitment to sustainable travel, Jet2holidays recently launched a hotel sustainability labeling scheme to help customers identify environmentally friendly accommodations.

As the aviation industry moves towards a more sustainable future, Jet2.com’s proactive measures at Stansted and Bristol are pivotal in setting industry standards and encouraging other airlines to adopt similar practices.