United Airlines and Neste have expanded their partnership by introducing sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) to three major airports in the United States. Effective from the summer of 2025, Houston George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), and Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) will operate flights powered by SAF for the first time. This initiative marks a significant milestone, as it is the first instance of any airline utilizing SAF across these three hubs.
This new rollout builds on the successful SAF operations already established at Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and San Francisco International Airport (SFO). Neste began supplying SAF to United Airlines at O’Hare in August 2024 and has been involved in similar initiatives at SFO. The SAF contract at IAH is set to conclude at the end of this month, while EWR and IAD will continue to incorporate the alternative fuel through next year.
Significant Steps in Sustainability
United Airlines has positioned itself as a leader in sustainable aviation practices, having consumed approximately 4,300 metric tons (equivalent to 13 million gallons) of SAF last year. This was achieved when only two major hubs were utilizing this alternative fuel. The airline emphasizes the importance of large carriers like itself in reducing emissions, particularly as air transport contributes around 2-3% of global greenhouse gases. The World Economic Forum reports that the commercial aviation sector consumes about 4.3 billion gallons of fuel annually.
Lauren Riley, Chief Sustainability Officer at United Airlines, highlighted the airline’s commitment in a recent press release from Neste: “United remains the leading SAF user in the US… we recognize that the growth of the SAF market requires support from both state and federal governments.” This statement underscores the need for collaborative efforts to foster the development of sustainable aviation fuel.
Innovative Fuel Solutions
Neste’s MY Sustainable Aviation Fuel is created from 100% renewable raw materials, including used cooking oil and animal fat. The fuel is certified for use in blends of up to 50% with conventional jet fuel and can reduce carbon emissions by as much as 80% when used unblended. Despite the environmental benefits, the cost of SAF remains significantly higher than that of traditional jet fuel, often ranging from two to five times its price. This financial barrier is a critical challenge that necessitates government incentives to increase SAF adoption in the aviation industry.
United Airlines has long been vocal about its ambitions to achieve 100% emissions reduction by 2050. The airline believes that sustainable aviation fuel represents a more effective environmental solution compared to purchasing emissions credits, commonly referred to as offsets.
Neste’s commitment to increasing SAF production is notable. The company currently has a global production capability of 1.5 million tons (or 515 million gallons) per year, with projections to increase this to 2.2 million tons (approximately 750 million gallons) by the end of 2027.
As United Airlines amplifies its initiatives through its “Good Leads The Way” campaign, the focus remains on promoting the use of sustainable aviation fuel. The partnership with Neste plays a vital role in addressing the current low global supply of SAF, which hampers its widespread adoption.
In conclusion, the collaboration between United Airlines and Neste is a significant step toward fostering a more sustainable aviation industry. As both organizations strive to enhance fuel availability and affordability, their efforts may pave the way for broader adoption of sustainable aviation fuel, ultimately contributing to the reduction of aviation-related emissions and promoting environmental responsibility.