United Airlines has set a new benchmark by becoming the first airline to secure sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) for operations at Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport (ORD). This milestone was celebrated with Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, highlighting the crucial role of Illinois’ SAF tax credits in enabling this initiative. United remains committed to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, distinguishing itself by not relying on voluntary carbon offsetsNeste Partnership and SAF Implementation
Neste, a leading producer of sustainable fuels, will supply up to 1 million gallons of SAF to United at ORD in 2024, with initial deliveries starting in August. This move extends United’s use of SAF to five major airports, reinforcing the airline’s leadership in sustainable aviation practices in the U.S.Government Support and Policy Collaboration
Governor Pritzker expressed pride in the initiative, stating, “I was proud to support a nation-leading SAF tax credit last year. Illinois’s position as a hub of innovation with some of the most connected airports in the country perfectly aligns with the work of companies like United to build a more sustainable future for travel and reach our shared goal of zero emissions.”United Airlines Ventures Sustainable Flight Fund (UAV Sustainable Flight Fund)
United Airlines Ventures Sustainable Flight Fund is a significant component of United’s strategy to scale up the SAF industry. The fund, which has received over $200 million in commitments from more than 20 companies, including competitors, invests in startups developing alternative fuels from diverse sources such as algae and agricultural waste. The UAV Sustainable Flight Fund was recognized earlier this year as the winner in the Impact Investing category of Fast Company’s 2024 World Changing Ideas Awards, underscoring its potential to drive meaningful change in the aviation sector.In addition to promoting SAF, United is exploring hydrogen-powered flight technologies (H2), enhancing operational efficiencies, and investing in new fuel-efficient aircraft.
The airline’s Eco-Skies Alliance program, which collaborates with corporate partners to share the costs associated with SAF, has collectively supported the purchase of over 10.5 million gallons of SAF since 2021.