Towards Greener Skies: Past Achievements and Future Horizons of Sustainable Aviation Fuels

Absztrakt

Nowadays industries worldwide are transforming to become more climate and environment aware, hence there is a radiant shift of focus and demand toward more green and sustainable solutions which can be easily spotted in various inventions and developments. Aviation is no stranger to these demands if not the most pressurised sector to reduce its environmental footprint, while accommodating the growing demand for air travel. The increased number of funded research in the field of creating new generation and greener aircraft (electrical, hybrid, hydrogen) is the proof of that quest. Pursuing those goals is very important, however, it is safe to say that the industry still has a long way to go. The proposed solutions, while very innovative, lack the resources to provide safe and economical operational flights due to immature technological tools. Therefore, a quick and alternative way was sought after in the meantime, which is what made sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) emerge as a viable option for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting environmental sustainability in aviation. This paper presents a detailed review of SAF’s previous accomplishments and future possibilities and aspects.