Summary: The FAA FAST Grant Program, established under the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, aims to accelerate the production and use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and the development of low-emission aviation technologies. With $291 million allocated across 36 projects, this program is a critical component in helping the U.S. aviation sector achieve its ambitious goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. This article provides an in-depth look at the companies and projects that have been selected as recipients of these grants, highlighting their contributions to the future of sustainable aviation.
The FAA’s FAST Grant Program, part of the broader Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, represents a major federal initiative to propel the aviation industry toward a sustainable future. With a focus on Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) infrastructure and low-emission aviation technologies, the program has allocated $291 million to 36 cutting-edge projects across the United States. These grants are designed to support the aviation sector’s goal of achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
This article dives into the details of the key recipients of these grants, showcasing the innovative companies and projects that are leading the charge in transforming the aviation industry. Each of these projects plays a vital role in addressing the industry’s most pressing challenges, from developing ultra-lightweight batteries to constructing infrastructure for SAF production and distribution.
Key Points of the FAA FAST Grant Program
- Total Funding: $291 million
- Number of Projects Funded: 36
- Main Objectives: Accelerate SAF production, develop low-emission aviation technologies, and enhance SAF infrastructure.
- Established Under: Inflation Reduction Act of 2022
“These grants are propelling the aviation industry toward a sustainable future, fostering innovation that will reduce carbon emissions and drive economic growth.”
2024 FAA FAST Grant Recipients
UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA
Charlottesville, VA | $202,500.00
Aviation Biofuels Supply Chains from Southwest Virginia to Washington Dulles International Airport
The University of Virginia was awarded $202,500 to conduct a comprehensive study on aviation biofuels supply chains from Southwest Virginia to Washington Dulles International Airport. This project aimed to model and analyze the logistics required to deliver Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) to one of the busiest airports in the region. The findings of this study are expected to guide stakeholders and investors in making informed decisions regarding SAF infrastructure development in Virginia and beyond.
The study, titled “Geospatially Explicit Technoeconomic Assessment of Sustainable Aviation Fuel Production: A Regional Case Study in Virginia,” evaluated two biomass-to-energy platforms—gasification Fischer Tropsch (GFT) and pyrolysis. It focused on regionally abundant feedstocks like woody wastes and municipal solid wastes (MSW). The study revealed that while the GFT process results in lower emissions, it is more expensive, requiring local incentives of approximately $3.61 per gallon of SAF. On the other hand, pyrolysis, though cheaper (requiring $0.75 per gallon in incentives), results in higher emissions. The study concluded that state or local incentives are essential to make SAF production cost-competitive with fossil fuels. Additionally, the open-access modeling framework developed in this study can be adapted for similar assessments in other regions, offering a valuable tool for decision-makers considering SAF commercialization.
CNX GREEN VENTURES LLC
Allegheny County, PA | $106,875.00
SAF Logistics Study Project
CNX Green Ventures LLC received $106,875 to conduct a crucial logistics study focused on the transportation of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) from Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) to regional airports across the Northeast and Midwest. This study is designed to inform a project hub and transportation network investment strategy, which will be pivotal in advancing local SAF development. The project seeks to evaluate various transportation modes, including the potential use of existing or newly constructed pipeline infrastructure, as well as barge and rail options.
The ultimate goal is to optimize SAF transportation in a manner that increases energy security, reduces dependence on foreign supply chains, and lowers lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions. By providing excess SAF to other regional airports, the project will enhance the reliability and stability of fuel supply chains, which are crucial for maintaining consistent airline operations.
The successful completion of this logistics study could lead to significant investments in constructing a hydrogen and SAF production facility on PIT grounds. Such developments would double the onsite fuel storage capacity, ensuring a more stable fuel supply during disruptions. This project underscores Pittsburgh’s potential to become a major hub for SAF distribution in the region, contributing to the broader national goal of decarbonizing the aviation industry.
WRIGHT ELECTRIC INC.
Malta, NY | $3,342,093.97
Ultra-High Energy Battery Development
Wright Electric Inc. was awarded $3.34 million to develop a groundbreaking class of ultra-lightweight batteries designed to enable zero-emission flights for large aircraft carrying 100+ passengers. This project, funded through the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), addresses one of the most significant technical challenges in the adoption of electric aircraft—creating batteries that are both lightweight and energy-dense enough to support regional air travel.
The core objective of this research and development initiative is to construct batteries with roughly three times the energy capacity per pound compared to the best electric car batteries available today. Wright Electric is leveraging a novel molten Lithium-Sulfur chemistry, which holds the potential to revolutionize the electric aircraft industry by enabling the widespread adoption of battery-powered regional flights.
Founded in 2016, Wright Electric has been dedicated to addressing the climate and noise impacts of the aerospace industry by focusing on the 100+ passenger aircraft market. This market accounts for over 90% of the industry’s carbon emissions. In addition to developing ultra-lightweight batteries, Wright also focuses on creating ultra-power-dense electric aircraft engines. The company collaborates with NASA, the U.S. Department of Energy, and the U.S. Department of Defense to advance these technologies.
This FAST grant is a significant milestone for Wright Electric, as it will allow the company to mature its battery technology and accelerate the decarbonization of air transportation. The funding will help reduce risks related to airworthiness and high-volume production, bringing Wright Electric closer to making zero-emission regional flights a reality.
GREEN TAXI, INC.
Lancaster, TX; Atlanta, GA; Minneapolis, MN | $5,600,000.00
Green Taxi Electric Taxi (eTaxi) System for Embraer E-175 Aircraft
Green Taxi, Inc. received $5.6 million to develop and implement an innovative Green Taxi System for the Embraer E-175 aircraft. This system is designed to significantly reduce aircraft fuel consumption and carbon emissions during ground operations by allowing aircraft to taxi without using their main jet engines. Instead, electric motors located on the landing gear wheels, powered by the existing Auxiliary Power Unit (APU), enable the plane to move forward or backward with normal steering and braking by the pilot.
The Green Taxi System offers multiple benefits, including a substantial reduction in the environmental impact of airport ground operations. By reducing engine emissions, the system contributes to lowering CO2 and NOx emissions, aligning with corporate goals for carbon neutrality and reducing carbon taxes. The system also addresses inefficiencies associated with traditional taxi operations, which burn significant amounts of fuel. With potential fuel savings exceeding 4% of total block fuel consumption, the Green Taxi System provides a cost-effective solution for aircraft operators, potentially saving several hundred thousand dollars per aircraft per year.
Beyond environmental and cost-saving benefits, the Green Taxi System improves operational efficiency. Aircraft equipped with the system can “pushback and go” more quickly, reducing gate and tarmac congestion, improving on-time departure performance, and minimizing ground time. Additionally, the system eliminates the need for aircraft pushback and towing via tug tractor, reduces brake wear, extends main engine life, enhances ground crew safety, and reduces noise levels within the airport environment.
This FAST grant will enable Green Taxi, Inc. to advance the development and certification of the Green Taxi System for the Embraer E-175, with plans to expand the technology to other aircraft models in the future. This innovative system represents a significant step forward in reducing the aviation industry’s carbon footprint while enhancing the efficiency and safety of ground operations.
LANZAJET, INC.
Soperton, GA | $3,096,047.00
Freedom Pines Fuels SAF Infrastructure Project
LanzaJet, Inc. was awarded $3.1 million to support the development of its sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production facility in Soperton, Georgia. This funding will be used to install new storage tanks at the facility, which is expected to significantly boost the production of SAF, with hundreds of thousands of gallons anticipated to be produced annually. This project is part of a broader effort to enhance American energy security, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and establish Georgia as a leader in clean energy and renewable technology.
The Soperton facility is home to the world’s only ethanol-to-SAF plant, positioning LanzaJet at the forefront of SAF innovation. The installation of these new storage tanks will play a critical role in expanding the facility’s production capacity, thereby contributing to the aviation industry’s decarbonization goals. The project will also support the local economy by investing in rural communities and providing a sustainable market for farmers who supply the feedstocks necessary for SAF production.
LanzaJet’s CEO, Jimmy Samartzis, emphasized the importance of federal support for SAF development, noting that this grant will help transform an industry traditionally reliant on fossil fuels. The funding is seen as a crucial step in achieving aviation’s net-zero targets, supporting domestic energy security, and driving economic development.
In addition to its efforts at the Soperton facility, LanzaJet is also contributing to broader sustainability initiatives at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, which received a separate federal grant to strengthen regional SAF supply chains. Together, these efforts underscore Georgia’s growing leadership in advancing sustainable aviation and clean energy technologies.
GEVO, INC.
Luverne, MN | $16,800,000.00
Luverne SAF Infrastructure Project
Gevo, Inc. was awarded $16.8 million to support the conversion of its Luverne, Minnesota, facility into a fully integrated alcohol-to-jet Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) production site. This investment marks a significant step forward in the production of corn-based jet fuel, which is central to Gevo’s mission of providing renewable fuels to reduce the aviation industry’s carbon footprint.
The Luverne plant, which resumed production of isobutanol after a temporary shutdown during the COVID-19 pandemic, will soon transition into a hydrocarbon facility focused on producing SAF. This site will serve as a pilot for Gevo’s broader ambitions, including their Net-Zero 1 production facility planned for Lake Preston, South Dakota. The Luverne project is part of Gevo’s larger strategy to support the U.S. and European Union goals of producing nearly 4 billion gallons of SAF annually by 2030, and over 45 billion gallons by 2050.
In addition to the federal grant, Gevo is taking measures to reduce its own carbon footprint, including the use of wind energy at the Luverne facility. The project is expected to use approximately 800,000 bushels of corn in its first year of SAF production. The successful demonstration of SAF production at Luverne will not only contribute to aviation’s decarbonization efforts but also create high-quality jobs and strengthen the local economy in southwest Minnesota.
Gevo is also partnering with industry giants such as ADM and Chevron to expand SAF production and distribution. These collaborations aim to convert large volumes of ethanol and isobutanol into SAF, further scaling up the production to meet the growing demand from airline customers. The Luverne facility’s transformation is a critical component of Gevo’s strategy to lead the renewable jet fuel market, leveraging advanced technologies and partnerships to achieve world-scale commercialization of SAF.
SIEMENS ENERGY, INC.
Sanford, FL | $300,324.00
Supply Chain Scoping Studies for DAC-SAF
Siemens Energy, Inc. was awarded $300,324 to conduct supply chain scoping studies for the development of Direct Air Capture (DAC) technologies integrated with Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) production. This project aims to lay the groundwork for a pilot DAC-SAF facility, identifying optimal locations and infrastructure requirements to support regional supply chains. The studies will evaluate the feasibility of capturing CO2 directly from the air and converting it into SAF, a critical component in the aviation industry’s efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Siemens Energy’s involvement in DAC-SAF projects aligns with their broader commitment to providing innovative energy solutions that support decarbonization goals. Siemens Energy is already making strides in the DAC space, supplying critical equipment for the world’s first large-scale DAC plant. This plant will use Siemens Energy’s motor-driven wet and dry gas compressors to capture and sequester CO2, either for safe underground storage or to produce hydrocarbons, which can then be transformed into low-carbon transportation fuels, including SAF.
The FAST Grant-funded study is expected to play a pivotal role in advancing DAC-SAF technology, which could become an essential part of the aviation industry’s pathway to net-zero emissions. By leveraging their expertise in carbon management and energy infrastructure, Siemens Energy is well-positioned to contribute to the scaling of DAC technologies, potentially revolutionizing the production of SAF and helping the industry meet its climate targets. This initiative, supported by policy incentives like the Inflation Reduction Act, is a significant step towards realizing the potential of DAC as a viable solution for reducing CO2 emissions in hard-to-decarbonize industries.
OTTO AVIATION GROUP, LLC
Yorba Linda, CA; University Park, PA | $6,989,535.00
Wind-Tunnel Testing of a Transonic Aircraft with a Fully-Integrated Slotted, Natural Laminar-Flow Wing
Otto Aviation Group, LLC was awarded nearly $7 million to conduct wind-tunnel testing of its revolutionary transonic aircraft design featuring a fully-integrated slotted, natural laminar-flow wing. This project aims to advance the development of the Celera series, known for its groundbreaking efficiency and fuel economy, by refining the aerodynamic properties that contribute to the aircraft’s super-laminar flow.
Otto Aviation has been at the forefront of aircraft innovation, particularly in leveraging laminar flow—a fluid dynamics phenomenon that significantly reduces drag by maintaining smooth airflow over the aircraft surfaces. Their Celera 500 experimental technology demonstrator, which flew test missions from 2017 to 2020, showcased a 59% improvement in fuel efficiency over similarly sized aircraft, thanks to a 30% reduction in drag. The Celera series, including the upcoming Celera 800, achieves remarkable fuel efficiency and carbon emissions reductions, bringing it in line with the environmental impact of electric vehicles.
The FAST Grant will enable Otto Aviation to optimize the aerodynamic design further through wind-tunnel testing, focusing on the transonic regime where achieving and maintaining laminar flow is particularly challenging. The goal is to achieve twice the efficiency of traditional aircraft, which could revolutionize the aviation industry by offering a sustainable, cost-effective alternative to conventional aircraft designs.
Otto Aviation’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond just fuel efficiency. The Celera 800, for instance, is designed to operate on Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), which reduces carbon emissions by an additional 80% compared to fossil fuels. Combined with the aircraft’s inherent efficiency, this results in CO2 emissions per seat mile comparable to those of electric vehicles, positioning the Celera as a leader in sustainable air travel.
This wind-tunnel testing funded by the FAA’s FAST Grant is a crucial step in bringing Otto Aviation’s innovative aircraft designs closer to commercial reality, potentially transforming the future of air travel with unparalleled efficiency and reduced environmental impact.
JETZERO, INC.
Long Beach, CA; Wichita, KS; Starkville, MS | $8,035,236.30
Blended Wing Body Lightweight Composite Structures Development
JetZero, Inc. was awarded over $8 million to advance the development of lightweight composite structures for their innovative Blended Wing Body (BWB) aircraft. The project focuses on creating key enabling technologies that will make the BWB aircraft commercially viable, with a particular emphasis on producing lightweight composite structures capable of supporting non-cylindrical pressure vessels.
JetZero is at the forefront of a new era in aviation design, addressing the limitations of traditional tube-and-wing aircraft that have reached their peak in terms of efficiency. The BWB design, which integrates the fuselage and wings into a single, cohesive airframe, offers a significant leap forward in fuel efficiency, reducing fuel burn and emissions by up to 50% compared to conventional aircraft. This ultra-efficient design is essential in an industry facing rising fuel costs and increasing pressure to reduce carbon emissions.
In addition to its efficiency, the BWB aircraft is designed to be fully compatible with existing airport infrastructure, ensuring a smooth integration into current operations. The unique design also enhances the passenger experience, offering more spacious cabins, improved aisles, and reduced turn times due to better layout and accessibility.
The environmental benefits of the BWB extend beyond fuel savings. By mounting engines on top of the airframe, the JetZero aircraft significantly reduces community noise, making it four times quieter than traditional aircraft, which is particularly beneficial for airports located near residential areas.
JetZero’s BWB design also boasts multi-mission capability, making it a versatile solution for both commercial and military applications. The U.S. Air Force has shown interest in the design for potential use as a tanker or freighter, further demonstrating the BWB’s adaptability and importance in achieving ambitious sustainability goals across different sectors.
The FAA’s investment in JetZero’s lightweight composite structures is a crucial step in bringing this next-generation aircraft closer to market. By focusing on cutting-edge materials and innovative design, JetZero is poised to lead the aviation industry into a more sustainable future, offering a practical solution to the global challenge of reducing carbon emissions while enhancing operational efficiency.
WORLD ENERGY, LLC
Paramount, CA | $21,963,000.00
FAST-SAF Transportation System Infrastructure Project
World Energy LLC received a substantial $21.96 million grant to develop a Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) transportation system. This project involves the installation and integration of a SAF pipeline that will directly deliver Jet A/SAF blended fuel to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). The initiative represents a significant step forward in creating a more sustainable and efficient supply chain for aviation fuels, crucial for reducing the industry’s carbon footprint.
The funding comes as part of the FAST discretionary grant program, established under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). This program aims to accelerate the adoption of SAF and other eco-friendly aviation technologies by providing financial support to projects that enhance SAF production, distribution, and infrastructure. World Energy’s project is one of 36 selected across the United States, with a total of $291 million allocated to these initiatives, underscoring the federal government’s commitment to decarbonizing aviation.
The successful implementation of this SAF pipeline will not only streamline the supply chain but also enhance the sustainability of one of the world’s busiest airports. By enabling the direct delivery of SAF, the project will reduce the reliance on traditional, higher-emission transportation methods, thereby lowering the overall environmental impact of fuel distribution.
U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg highlighted the significance of such projects in achieving the Biden-Harris Administration’s goal of net-zero emissions in aviation by mid-century. This grant not only supports environmental goals but also fosters domestic economic growth, ensuring the U.S. maintains its leadership in the global aviation industry. World Energy’s SAF transportation infrastructure is set to play a critical role in this transition, contributing to a more sustainable future for air travel.
ARCADIA EFUELS
Gregory, TX | $14,626,500.00
Arcadia eFuels Project ARC: Front End Engineering Design (FEED) for SAF Production
Arcadia eFuels received a significant $14.6 million grant to support their innovative Project ARC in Texas. This funding will be utilized to accelerate the development of their eSAF (electro-Sustainable Aviation Fuel) production facility through the Front End Engineering Design (FEED) phase. The project is a key component of Arcadia’s broader mission to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the aviation industry by producing cleaner, sustainable fuels.
Project ARC in Gregory, Texas, aims to produce eSAF, a cutting-edge fuel derived from renewable electricity and captured carbon dioxide, which significantly reduces the carbon footprint of aviation. The project’s successful completion will not only contribute to greener air travel but also position Texas as a leader in the emerging eSAF industry.
Arcadia eFuels expressed gratitude to the Federal Aviation Administration and the U.S. Department of Transportation for recognizing the potential of their work and providing the necessary resources to advance their project. With the support of the FAST Grant, Arcadia eFuels is poised to make a substantial impact on the aviation industry’s journey toward decarbonization, contributing to a sustainable future for air travel.
The FAST Grant Program, established under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), is designed to propel the adoption of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) and low-emission technologies by offering financial support to projects that enhance SAF production, infrastructure, and distribution. Arcadia’s Project ARC stands out as one of the 36 projects selected nationwide, emphasizing the federal government’s commitment to fostering innovative solutions in aviation sustainability.
HEART AEROSPACE INC.
Palo Alto, CA | $4,125,000.00
Development of the Hybrid Propulsion Automated Control System (HPACS)
Heart Aerospace, the Swedish innovator in hybrid-electric aviation, was awarded a $4.1 million grant to advance the development of its Hybrid Propulsion Automated Control System (HPACS). This funding will support Heart’s efforts to build a state-of-the-art control system that automates the management of hybrid power sources within aircraft, ensuring optimal safety, efficiency, and environmental performance.
The HPACS is a groundbreaking technology designed to provide an aircraft-level power management system that seamlessly integrates and automates the hybrid power sources. This system will minimize fuel consumption, emissions, and noise, while also offering a transparent operation to the flight crew. The development of HPACS is critical for the success of Heart Aerospace’s ES-30, a hybrid-electric regional aircraft that promises to make regional air travel more sustainable and cost-effective.
The work related to this grant will be conducted in the United States, leveraging Heart Aerospace’s growing R&D presence, particularly at its newly established hub in Los Angeles. The funding provided by the FAST Grant is part of a broader federal initiative under the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, aimed at accelerating the adoption of sustainable aviation technologies across the country.
The ES-30, powered by the HPACS, is poised to revolutionize regional air travel by reducing the environmental impact of aviation while lowering operational costs. This will enable airlines to reopen regional routes that have been previously closed due to cost constraints, making air travel more accessible and sustainable.
The FAST Grant Program has allocated $244.5 million to Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) projects and $46.5 million to new aviation technologies like HPACS. Heart Aerospace’s contribution to this initiative underscores the importance of technological innovation in driving the decarbonization of the aviation industry, marking a significant step toward more sustainable air travel.
BP PRODUCTS NORTH AMERICA INC.
Whatcom County, WA | $26,763,504.30
Enabling SAF Production and Blending at Cherry Point Refinery
BP Products North America Inc. received a substantial $26.76 million grant to support the development and integration of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production at its Cherry Point Refinery in Washington state. This grant is aimed at transforming the Cherry Point facility into a major hub for SAF, which is essential for reducing the aviation industry’s carbon footprint.
The Cherry Point Refinery, located near Bellingham, Washington, is the largest refinery in the state and one of the most significant on the West Coast. Originally built in 1971 by Atlantic Richfield (ARCO) and later acquired by BP in 2002, the refinery has a daily processing capacity of over 225,000 barrels of crude oil. The refinery primarily produces gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel, with jet fuel accounting for a significant portion of the fuel used at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport.
With the grant, BP aims to initiate SAF production at Cherry Point, leveraging its existing infrastructure and strategic location. The refinery’s ability to receive crude oil from Alaska’s North Slope and Western Canada, along with its proximity to key transportation networks, makes it an ideal location for SAF production and distribution. The project will focus on integrating SAF into the refinery’s operations, ensuring that the produced fuel meets the stringent requirements for aviation use while contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
This initiative is part of BP’s broader strategy to transition to lower-carbon energy sources and support global efforts to combat climate change. The company has been at the forefront of exploring sustainable alternatives in the energy sector, and the development of SAF at Cherry Point is a significant step toward achieving its sustainability goals. The FAST Grant Program, established under the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, underscores the U.S. government’s commitment to fostering innovation in sustainable aviation technologies and reducing the aviation industry’s environmental impact.
The successful implementation of SAF production at Cherry Point is expected to contribute significantly to meeting the U.S. and global targets for SAF production, which are critical for decarbonizing the aviation sector. BP’s investment in this project not only enhances the sustainability of its operations but also reinforces its position as a leader in the transition to a more sustainable energy future.
HAMILTON SUNDSTRAND CORPORATION
Windsor Locks, CT; East Hartford, CT | $1,867,500.00
SAF Robustness Project
Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation was awarded $1.87 million to demonstrate the robustness of fuel system hardware in utilizing up to 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). This project is essential for increasing the adoption of SAF in the aviation industry, as it will validate the reliability and performance of aircraft fuel systems operating on high blends of SAF. The successful completion of this project will provide confidence to airlines and manufacturers, promoting broader use of SAF and contributing to the decarbonization of aviation.
UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN
Ann Arbor, MI; Ambler, PA | $1,350,000.00
Expanding Flight Operations-based Low Emissions Technologies
The University of Michigan received $1.35 million to optimize arrival air traffic routing in the extended terminal area through real-time route advisories implemented in the Nexteon SmartRoutes flight planning software service. This project aims to reduce fuel consumption and emissions during the critical phase of aircraft arrival, thereby enhancing the overall sustainability of flight operations across the National Airspace System (NAS).
HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC.
Phoenix, AZ; Wichita, KS | $425,354.75
Sustainable Electrified Aircraft Power
Honeywell International Inc. was awarded $425,354 to advance the development of a highly efficient, all-electric turbogenerator auxiliary power unit (APU). This innovative technology is designed to enable aircraft systems electrification and electrified propulsion, which are crucial for reducing the aviation industry’s reliance on fossil fuels and lowering carbon emissions.
THE BOEING COMPANY
Berkeley, MO; Fairfax, VA; Tukwila, WA, and others | $2,595,522.75
SAF Quality Indication Project
The Boeing Company received $2.6 million to develop a method for fuel energy content (quality) indication as part of a new suite of technologies aimed at improving the measurement of fuel in airplane fuel tanks. This project will enable more accurate fuel load calculation, which is essential for optimizing aircraft performance and reducing fuel consumption. The technology will support the aviation industry’s transition to SAF by ensuring that fuel quality is consistently maintained, thereby enhancing operational efficiency and sustainability.
PHILLIPS 66 COMPANY
Torrance, CA | $6,270,300.00
Torrance Terminal Blended SAF Storage
Phillips 66 Company was awarded $6.27 million to enable blended SAF storage at the Torrance Terminal in Torrance, California. The facility will be equipped to store SAF that can be transported via pipeline to five airports in Arizona, California, and Nevada. This project is critical for expanding SAF distribution infrastructure, which is essential for meeting the growing demand for sustainable aviation fuels in the western United States.
AERSALE, INC.
Coral Gables, FL; Roswell, NM; Goodyear, AZ | $757,450.00
Aerodynamic Modifications for Boeing 737NG and 737 MAX
AerSale, Inc. received $757,450 for two projects focused on reducing drag and enabling fuel and emissions reductions on Boeing 737NG and 737 MAX aircraft. The first project involves modifying the wiper system to park the wipers in a vertical position, reducing drag. The second project involves installing aerodynamic devices on the aircraft windshield to further reduce drag. These modifications will enhance the overall efficiency of the aircraft, contributing to the aviation industry’s efforts to reduce carbon emissions.
BUCKEYE TERMINALS, LLC
Bedford Park, IL; Hammond, IN; East Chicago, IN; Taylor, MI | $24,054,883.20
Buckeye SAF Distribution Expansion Project
Buckeye Terminals, LLC was awarded $24.05 million to upgrade SAF distribution equipment, storage facilities, and rail off-loading capabilities at four existing Buckeye terminals. This project is critical for expanding SAF distribution infrastructure across the Midwest, which will play a vital role in increasing the availability of sustainable aviation fuels to airports in the region.
PIEDMONT TRIAD AIRPORT AUTHORITY
Greensboro, NC | $285,443.65
SAF Delivery to Piedmont Triad International Airport
The Piedmont Triad Airport Authority received $285,443 to conduct a study identifying the infrastructure required to facilitate SAF utilization at Piedmont Triad International Airport. The study aims to provide recommendations for infrastructure improvements and project opportunities that will support the adoption of SAF at the airport, contributing to the region’s sustainability goals.
MARQUIS R&D ENERGY, LLC
Hennepin, IL | $9,858,941.60
Marquis Liftoff – SAF Production, Transportation, Blending, and Storage
Marquis R&D Energy, LLC was awarded $9.86 million to combine its ethanol production capability with leading ethanol-to-jet (EtU) technology providers and U.S. supply chain capabilities to produce, distribute, blend, and store SAF. This project will leverage Marquis’ existing logistics resources to support the expansion of SAF production and distribution in the Midwest, helping to meet the growing demand for sustainable aviation fuels.
CITY OF PHILADELPHIA DEPARTMENT OF AVIATION
Philadelphia, PA | $299,692.00
SAF Implementation and Infrastructure Feasibility Study
The City of Philadelphia Department of Aviation received $299,692 to conduct a feasibility study on SAF implementation and infrastructure improvements at Philadelphia International Airport. The study will provide recommendations for enhancing the airport’s capability to support SAF utilization, aligning with the city’s commitment to sustainability and reducing the carbon footprint of aviation operations.
PHILLIPS 66 COMPANY
Rodeo, CA | $3,915,000.00
Aromatic Saturation Unit Catalyst Change for Increased SAF Production
Phillips 66 Company was awarded $3.92 million to update its existing facility in Rodeo, California, to accelerate and increase neat SAF production. The facility will rely on a diverse array of hydrotreated esters and fatty acids (HEFA) feedstocks to produce neat SAF, contributing to the overall supply of sustainable aviation fuels in the United States.
MARTINEZ RENEWABLES LLC
Contra Costa County, CA | $50,000,000.00
Martinez Renewables Facility SAF Production Project
Martinez Renewables LLC received a substantial $50 million grant to update its existing facility in Contra Costa County, California, to enable SAF production as synthetic paraffinic kerosene (SPK). The facility is projected to produce 100-350 million gallons of SAF annually starting in 2027, making it a significant contributor to the U.S. aviation industry’s decarbonization efforts.
EQUILON ENTERPRISES LLC
Long Beach, CA | $17,937,999.00
Shell Carson SAF Blending HUB
Equilon Enterprises LLC was awarded $17.94 million to install infrastructure for receiving and blending neat SAF into the jet fuel distribution network at the Shell Carson terminal in Southern California. The project will enable the blending, storage, and distribution of up to 151 million gallons of SAF per year, supporting the region’s transition to sustainable aviation fuels.
Conclusion
The FAA’s FAST Grant Program is a pivotal initiative supporting the aviation industry’s transition to sustainable operations. By funding projects that enhance SAF infrastructure and develop low-emission technologies, the program is laying the groundwork for the U.S. to meet its ambitious 2050 climate goals. The comprehensive list of awardees highlights the diverse range of innovative projects and companies that are leading the charge in this critical transition.