Heathrow sets 5.6% SAF target for 2026 with expanded incentives scheme

Heathrow Airport has announced plans to increase the proportion of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) used at the airport to 5.6% in 2026, exceeding the UK government’s mandated level for commercial aviation. The airport also confirmed an £80m incentive scheme to support airlines in purchasing SAF, helping to stimulate supply across the UK.

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The initiative aims to accelerate the adoption of SAF, which can reduce full lifecycle carbon emissions from aviation by up to 80% compared with conventional jet fuel.

Heathrow’s chief executive Thomas Woldbye highlighted the airport’s role in helping the aviation industry meet national and international carbon reduction targets, while ensuring that operational and economic needs remain aligned with sustainability goals.

The airport said SAF production is currently limited, and wider adoption depends on expanding supply chains and ongoing investment in sustainable fuel technologies.

The higher SAF target and incentive scheme form part of Heathrow’s broader strategy to reduce the carbon intensity of its operations and contribute to the UK’s goal of net zero aviation by 2050.