The SAF MENA 2025 summit in Abu Dhabi hosted a critical panel discussion on how airlines can accelerate decarbonisation through the integration of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). The session, titled “Scaling SAF Adoption: Policy and Operational Strategies for Decarbonisation,” featured insights from Shubodeep Pal, COO of Simpliflying, and Aaron Robinson, VP of Sustainable Aviation Fuels at International Airlines Group (IAG). The discussion focused on optimising operational efficiency, strengthening policy frameworks, and enhancing commercial strategies to facilitate SAF adoption across the aviation sector.

Operational Optimisation as a Decarbonisation Tool

The panellists highlighted SAF as a practical and immediate solution for reducing carbon emissions, particularly as alternative propulsion technologies remain years away from large-scale deployment. According to Robinson, “The operational shift towards SAF offers the most realistic pathway for airlines to reduce their carbon footprint in the short-to-medium term. Ensuring consistent supply and enhancing accessibility are crucial priorities.”

The discussion emphasised the potential of integrating SAF into existing supply chains without requiring substantial modifications to aircraft or refuelling systems. Such integration can significantly enhance carbon savings while ensuring compliance with evolving sustainability standards. However, Robinson pointed out that fragmented global policies continue to pose challenges for widespread SAF uptake.