On Wednesday, the European Parliament is set to give its approval to the final agreement on ReFuelEU reached by the Commission, the Parliament and the Council.

This law marks a crucial step toward cutting emissions in the aviation industry, and aligning the sector with EU’s climate goals. It sets strict requirements for fuel suppliers, requiring them to gradually increase their use of Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAFs) from 20% by 2035 to 70% by 2050 for all commercial flights across Europe.

The RefuelEU Aviation initiative is closely in line with the S&D’s core values and priorities, including the safeguarding of social and workers’ rights, elevating SAFs targets, and fostering synthetic fuels, hydrogen, and electric alternatives.

Erik Bergkvist, S&D rapporteur on RefuelEU, said:

“Thanks to the relentless efforts of the S&D Group, the European Parliament is set to greenlight the gradual integration of sustainable aviation fuels into the aviation sector. This affirmative vote is a significant milestone in our pursuit to transform the aviation industry, once among the EU’s most polluting sectors, into a paragon of environmental responsibility.

“This law is crucial as it forms a vital pillar of the Fit for 55 package and represents the EU’s first legislation concerning aviation fuels. It brings us a step closer to realising our climate aspirations, while simultaneously fostering improved regional connectivity and cohesion within the EU.”

Petar Vitanov, S&D coordinator in the transport and tourism committee, said:

“Our objective is crystal clear: to usher in an era of sustainability and environmental responsibility in aviation fuels. With the adoption of this report, we are paving the way for sustainable aviation fuels that have the potential to reduce the life-cycle carbon footprint of aviation fuel by an impressive 80%. This is an audacious goal, especially considering that sustainable aviation fuels currently account for less than 0.1% of total aviation fuel consumption.”