Airbus is taking a major step in accelerating the global adoption of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) with the launch of a new ‘Book and Claim’ program. The initiative is particularly aimed at supporting smaller operators in accessing SAF more easily and cost-effectively.
Starting in 2025, Airbus will roll out a pilot project to test a ‘Book and Claim’ system for SAF procurement. Under this model, customers do not need physical access to SAF to benefit from its carbon reduction advantages. In simple terms, buyers can “book” SAF and “claim” the associated climate benefits—even if the fuel is delivered and used elsewhere. This system is especially beneficial for operators who need only small volumes or operate from airports where SAF is not yet available.
Airbus will act as an intermediary, purchasing SAF certificates and managing the sustainability attributes through the Roundtable on Sustainable Biomaterials (RSB) registry. These certificates will then be made available to interested customers. According to Airbus, this approach will help generate additional short-term demand for SAF.
Julien Manhes, Head of SAF and Carbon Dioxide Removals at Airbus, emphasized the potential of the system: “For many smaller operators, access to SAF is limited. By securing SAF certificates in advance and making them available when customers need them, we can simplify the process and reduce the risk,” said Manhes.
Industry Support Grows
The initiative has already attracted backing from several aviation stakeholders. SMBC Aviation Capital was the first to sign a letter of intent, followed by expressions of interest from AerCap, Comlux, Luxaviation, Novespace, Rive Private Investment, and SAF Aerogroup.
With this program, Airbus aims to lower the barrier to SAF adoption and contribute to the industry’s broader sustainability goals—even in regions where infrastructure is still catching up.