IATA: Azerbaijan’s sustainable aviation fuel potential offers new edge in green travel

Azerbaijan’s abundant energy resources position the country well to develop sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production — a sector expected to see rising global demand in the coming years.

This insight comes from Rafael Schwartzman, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) regional vice president for Europe, in an interview with domestic media.

Schwartzman emphasised that increasing SAF production is a crucial step toward achieving zero carbon emissions in aviation, noting that SAF can cut carbon emissions by as much as 80% compared to traditional jet fuel.

“Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) flights to Europe will be significantly impacted by the new EU ReFuelEU Aviation regulation, which mandates a gradual increase in the use of SAF at European airports,” said Schwartzman. “The goal is to reduce emissions by requiring the blending of SAF with conventional fuel, with SAF expected to make up to 70% of total fuel volume by 2050.”

He added that while AZAL has already begun investing in SAF and has joined the ReFuelEU initiative, complying with the new regulations may present operational challenges. These include higher fuel costs and potential supply limitations at European airports.

“We recognise and support Azerbaijan’s efforts to promote SAF, despite current regulatory and commercial obstacles within the country,” Schwartzman said. “Building stronger partnerships with SAF suppliers and optimising fuel procurement will be vital for Azerbaijan Airlines to stay economically efficient while meeting EU sustainability standards. To speed up SAF adoption in Azerbaijan, the country might consider accepting ASTM international standards as an alternative or supplement to the currently used GOST standards.”

By Tamilla Hasanova