Introducing Innovative Aviation Fuel at Budapest Airport
Budapest Airport, part of the VINCI Airports network, has achieved an important milestone in sustainability by introducing sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) at Ferenc Liszt International Airport. Airport Fuel Supply Ltd., a subsidiary of Budapest Airport, has successfully passed the audit criteria required for this initiative. This certification is crucial as it enables the airport operator to provide airlines with a minimum of 2% sustainable aviation fuel from January 1, 2025, in compliance with regulations.
The introduction of sustainable aviation fuel is a significant step towards reducing aircraft emissions and addressing the environmental challenges faced by airport operators. Budapest Airport conducted tests on the commercial use of SAF in collaboration with MOL, Wizz Air, and AFS Ltd. in 2023. By meeting the stringent sustainability criteria and acquiring the ISCC EU certification, Budapest Airport’s subsidiary, AFS Ltd., is now prepared to supply airlines with sustainable aviation fuel.
The use of sustainable aviation fuel not only reduces greenhouse gas emissions but also contributes to the decarbonization of the aviation industry. Compared to fossil jet fuel, SAF can reduce carbon dioxide emissions by up to 80% over its lifecycle. It is produced from renewable raw materials such as vegetable or animal fats, converted through special processes to create a premium-quality fuel that is compatible with existing airport infrastructure.
Francois Berisot, the CEO of Budapest Airport, emphasized the importance of sustainable aviation fuel in decarbonizing the aviation sector and reducing carbon emissions. As part of VINCI Airport’s environmental policy, Budapest Airport aims to achieve a net zero carbon balance in its direct scopes (Scopes 1 and 2) by reducing direct airport operations’ carbon dioxide emissions by over 90% by 2030. This commitment aligns with Airports Council International’s Airport Carbon Accreditation Level 5 standards.
The introduction of sustainable aviation fuel at Budapest Airport aligns with the goals set by ReFuelEU Aviation to increase the use of SAF and reduce aviation CO2 emissions. The RefuelEU directive requires aviation fuel suppliers to gradually increase the share of SAF blended with conventional aviation fuel supplied at EU airports. By providing airlines with at least 2% sustainable aviation fuel from January 1, 2025, Budapest Airport is taking a significant step towards achieving these emissions reduction targets.
In addition to its efforts in sustainability, Budapest Airport broke previous records in 2024 and continues to prioritize environmental initiatives in its operations. The airport’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable aviation fuel usage highlights its dedication to environmental stewardship and innovation in the aviation industry.
