Govt permits SAF-blended aviation fuel use for aircraft, aligning India with global emission norms, ICAO standards, and CORSIA targets. Policy aims to reduce aviation carbon footprint, promote sustainable fuel adoption, and support international flight compliance requirements.
A policy shift aimed at cutting aviation emissions has been set in motion with a fresh regulatory amendment allowing airlines to use cleaner blended fuels for international operations. The move is expected to align domestic aviation practices with evolving global sustainability norms while preparing carriers for upcoming emission control frameworks.
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas confirmed that a notification dated April 17, 2026, amends the Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) Control Order, 2001. The change formally brings Aviation Turbine Fuel blended with Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) under regulatory oversight, enabling its use for aircraft refuelling. This administrative step is designed to facilitate a gradual transition toward lower-carbon aviation fuel without disrupting existing operational standards.
Sustainable Aviation Fuel, widely referred to as SAF, consists of advanced aviation-grade hydrocarbons produced from renewable sources such as agricultural residues, waste oils, and non-fossil feedstocks. Despite its alternative origin, SAF remains chemically similar to conventional ATF, ensuring compatibility with existing aircraft engines and fuel infrastructure. Officials emphasized that SAF does not compromise safety, efficiency, or performance, making it a viable drop-in fuel for commercial aviation.
Before approval for aviation use, SAF must pass strict certification protocols recognized by the International Civil Aviation Organization and technical standards set by ASTM International. These testing procedures ensure that blended fuels meet global benchmarks for reliability and safety, a prerequisite for integration into international flight operations.
The amendment significantly broadens the definition of ATF. Previously limited to petroleum-derived fuels compliant with Bureau of Indian Standards specifications, ATF now includes SAF co-processed in refineries as per IS 1571 and SAF blends meeting IS 17081. This regulatory expansion is crucial for integrating India into the global SAF supply chain, where blended fuels are increasingly becoming the norm.
Environmental considerations remain at the core of this policy. SAF has been recognized globally for its potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions compared to conventional jet fuel. According to aviation authorities, lifecycle emissions from SAF can be substantially lower, depending on feedstock and production methods. This positions SAF as a key component in decarbonizing the aviation sector, which has traditionally been difficult to electrify.
The policy also aligns with the global emissions framework known as Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation, developed under ICAO. The mandatory phase of this scheme begins in 2027, requiring airlines to offset emissions exceeding a defined baseline. By adopting SAF, airlines can reduce their offsetting burden, lowering compliance costs while improving environmental performance.
In anticipation of these requirements, the government has outlined indicative blending targets for SAF in international flights. Airlines are expected to incorporate 1 percent SAF by 2027, increase it to 2 percent in 2028, and reach 5 percent by 2030. These phased targets are intended to ensure a smooth transition while allowing time for domestic production capacity and supply chains to develop.
Globally, several major economies have already introduced similar mandates. The European Union has set progressive SAF blending requirements starting at 2 percent in 2025 and scaling up to 70 percent by 2050. The United Kingdom and Japan have also committed to ambitious targets, while the United States is promoting SAF through production incentives. Singapore has announced mandatory SAF usage for international flights beginning in 2026. These developments indicate a coordinated international push toward cleaner aviation fuels.
Industry analysts note that India’s regulatory update is a necessary step to remain competitive in this rapidly evolving landscape. Without such measures, airlines could face operational and financial challenges when complying with international emission standards.
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The government has reiterated its commitment to a broader green energy transition, with aviation playing a critical role in achieving long-term climate goals. By enabling SAF adoption, policymakers aim to reduce carbon emissions, stimulate domestic biofuel production, and strengthen the country’s position in the global clean energy market.
While challenges such as cost, feedstock availability, and scaling production remain, the latest notification provides a clear regulatory foundation for future growth. Aviation stakeholders are expected to collaborate across sectors to accelerate the adoption of sustainable fuels and ensure compliance with international environmental frameworks.
