The oneworld alliance as a collective is aspiring to a target of using sustainable aviation fuel for 10 percent of its combined fuel volumes by 2030, a strengthening of the alliance’s commitment to the environment and sustainability.

“Environmental sustainability is a fundamental priority for us as an alliance. Notwithstanding the challenges we currently face as an industry, our member airlines are deeply committed to taking action to reduce emissions,” said Rob Gurney, CEO, oneworld. “This is a collective role we can play as an industry and we hope our efforts will continue to create momentum in the journey towards decarbonising aviation.”

Using more SAF is instrumental for another of the alliance’s goals: net carbon emissions by 2050, a pledge made in September 2020, and the first global airline alliance to commit to a common carbon neutrality goal. Support from policymakers and stakeholders, as well as targeted investments, regulations, financial grants and government support mechanisms, will help facilitate the industry’s transition to SAF.

Oneworld and its member airlines will deploy SAF that is available at commercial scale, affordable and certified under the schemes recognized by ICAO and relevant authorities. The alliance is deeply committed to advocating for environmental sustainability, and its Environment and Sustainability Board is chaired by IAG Head of Sustainability Jonathon Counsell, with representation from all member airlines.

In August 2021, oneworld unveiled its initial carbon roadmap, which laid out the alliance’s path to net zero by 2050. On Sept. 22, oneworld signaled its commitment to SAF through its support of the World Economic Forum Clean Skies for Tomorrow Coalition’s 10% SAF by 2030 ambition statement. And, also recently, oneworld awarded scholarships to member airlines Japan Airlines and S7 Airlines for IATA sustainability training to support their efforts in registering for IATA Environmental Assessment.

“oneworld is strongly committed to playing a leading role in improving environmental sustainability and the 10% SAF target that we have unveiled today further reiterates that commitment,” said H.E. Mr. Akbar Al Baker, governing board chairman, oneworld, and chief executive, Qatar Airways Group. “Industry collaboration is critical for progress towards this important goal and we call on stakeholders to actively support the deployment of SAF technologies.”

Do you think oneworld and its member airlines will reach their sustainability goals? Are you more likely to fly one of the oneworld airlines in order to support their environmental goals? Tell us your thoughts. Email us at letters@globaltravelerusa.com. Please include your full name and location.