Blending Targets at a Glance
India has approved definite blending targets for Sustainable Aviation Fuel SAF in conventional jet fuel. International flights departing the country will use one percent SAF in 2027, two percent in 2028, and five percent by 2030. The phased plan offers industry time to scale technology and supply chains.
The new policy concentrates on international departures because those flights already meet the global CORSIA program. Matching domestic law with that framework reduces administrative effort for airlines and regulators alike. Public refineries intend to produce early batches using waste cooking oil, forestry residue, and agricultural by products.
Support Ecosystem Already Taking Shape
Refiners and Airlines Align
Indian Oil has secured international certification at its Panipat refinery, creating a home grown source of compliant SAF. Carriers such as Air India are negotiating long term offtake agreements that guarantee volume. Clear demand signals encourage banks to finance additional projects, accelerating learning and lowering unit costs. Government run flight training academies will use SAF blends in training aircraft, building familiarity among future pilots.
Collaborative Research Moves Upstream
Indian universities and engine manufacturers have created joint labs to evaluate diverse native feedstocks such as pongamia and algae. Early findings show several local species produce oils with favourable energy density and low freezing point, hinting at future fuels that could outperform imported alternatives.
A Less Obvious Advantage
The CORSIA baseline year is 2019. Any capacity growth above that year forces airlines to buy offsets. Each litre of SAF blended now directly trims that future bill, acting as an automatic hedge against unpredictable carbon credit prices while improving corporate environmental performance.
Conclusion
India is translating climate commitment into clear commercial opportunity. A transparent timeline, early certification, and proactive collaboration across sectors are positioning the nation to lead regional green aviation. Farmers, refiners, investors, and passengers will benefit as sustainable fuel becomes standard at Indian airports.