ReFuelEU represents a transformative shift in regulatory expectations across the aviation sector, making sustainable operations a regulatory necessity rather than an option. The regulation mandates that fuel providers meet the Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) blend requirements, starting with 2% SAF blend in 2025 increasing to 70% in 2050. Furthermore, from 2030, 1,2% of fuels must also be synthetic aviation fuels, rising to 35% in 2050.
This phased approach ensures that the SAF supply chain can grow steadily to meet demand while setting ambitious long-term goals for reducing aviation’s carbon footprint. From the operator’s side, fuel procurement is not a significant struggle as meeting the demand falls under the requirements of fuel providers. The primary compliance requirement for aircraft operators is the non-tankering mandate, which aims to prevent unnecessary carbon emissions from carrying excess fuel to avoid refuelling at higher-cost airports. Operators must uplift at least 90% of their fuel needs from Union airports, reducing the additional weight and emissions associated with tankering.
Learn everything you need to know about meeting the SAF mandates
ReFuelEU HandBook
Reporting and Documentation Obligations
Operators subject to ReFuelEU must meet certain thresholds to fall under its reporting requirements. Operators with over 500 commercial flights or more than 52 all-cargo flights from Union airports each year must report their uptake of SAF. These thresholds help the initiative focus on air transport sectors that have a significant environmental impact. They also create a manageable entry point for smaller companies.
Transparency is at the heart of ReFuelEU regulation. Aircraft operators must submit detailed reports on fuel uplift and SAF usage, ensuring regulators can track compliance with sustainability goals. Operators are required to:
- Document the types and volumes of SAF used.
- Retain supporting records, such as operational flight plans and exemption justifications, for at least four years.
- Submit annual data that meets EASA’s stringent reporting templates.
Navigating the EU SAF mandate’s reporting obligations and examples of compliant documentation can feel overwhelming; our ReFuelEU handbook explores these obligations, provides checklists to ensure smooth operations, and provides a summary of the EU SAF mandate’s requirements.
Additionally, ReFuelEU management software, such as Azzera CELESTE, can streamline SAF tracking and reporting. CELESTE platform offers an advanced RefuelEU management solution designed to streamline SAF inventory tracking and compliance for aviation operators and enables efficient SAF usage monitoring, including tracking sources, certifications, and fuel stocks, while aligning with EASA templates for simplified reporting.
Use our ReFuelEU Monitoring, Reporting and Verification Checklist
ReFuelEU HandBook
Challenges in Adopting Sustainable Aviation Fuels
The aviation sector faces several challenges in meeting SAF mandates. Limited production of SAF, high costs, and the need for advanced biofuels to reduce life-cycle emissions are just a few hurdles. Additionally, aligning with the Energy Taxation Directive (ETD) and integrating the sustainable aviation fuels produced into existing supply chains requires significant planning.
The regulation necessitates greater investment in infrastructure and transparent SAF and synthetic fuel sourcing practices for aviation fuel suppliers at European Union airports. Suppliers must meet rigorous fuel mix standards to ensure the sustainability and traceability of their fuels.
Importance of SAF Management and Risks of Non-Compliance
As aircraft operators prepare to implement ReFuelEU, understanding the key challenges that could impact compliance is essential. The regulation brings significant changes that require operators to adapt quickly, address logistical hurdles, and incorporate new practices into their operations.
Additionally, ReFuelEU allows exceptions to the 90% uplift rule when justified by safety requirements. Non-compliance must be documented with records like operational flight plans that specify fuel quantities required for safety reasons. Failure to apply for exemptions Non-compliance risks fines, reputational setbacks, and missed opportunities in a market prioritizing sustainability. Beyond penalties, meeting these requirements ensures alignment with industry leaders leveraging sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) to achieve greenhouse gas emissions reductions and regulatory compliance.
Opportunities for Innovation in the Aviation Sector
The ReFuelEU Aviation Initiative isn’t just a compliance challenge—it’s an opportunity to drive innovation across the industry. By adopting sustainable aviation fuels, operators and suppliers can position themselves as leaders in the transition to greener skies. SAFs, particularly advanced biofuels, offer significant life cycle emissions reductions compared to conventional jet fuels.
Preparing for 2025 and Beyond
As the January 2025 compliance deadline approaches, preparation is essential. The Azzera ReFuelEU Handbook is your ultimate guide to navigating the regulatory landscape, understanding your reporting thresholds, and implementing practical solutions. With its actionable insights and easy-to-follow guidance, the handbook helps you stay ahead of the curve and ensure your operations align with the European Commission’s sustainability goals.
Use our ReFuelEU Monitoring, Reporting and Verification Checklist
