Chicago, Illinois – United Airlines has announced a significant milestone in its sustainability efforts by becoming the first airline to purchase and use sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) at O’Hare International Airport. This initiative, supported by Illinois SAF tax credits, marks a major step in reducing carbon emissions from aviation.
Starting in August 2024, United will receive up to 1 million gallons of Neste MY Sustainable Aviation Fuel™ at O’Hare. This development makes O’Hare the fifth airport in United’s network to utilize SAF, demonstrating the airline’s leadership in sustainable fuel adoption. United led U.S. airlines in SAF usage in 2023, reflecting its commitment to achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 without relying on voluntary carbon offsets.
Governor JB Pritzker joined United executives to emphasize the role of state incentives in facilitating this achievement. “Illinois’s position as a hub of innovation aligns with the work of companies like United to build a more sustainable future for travel,” said Pritzker.
SAF, made from renewable materials, offers up to an 85% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions on a lifecycle basis compared to conventional jet fuel. It is considered one of the most scalable solutions for decarbonizing aviation due to its compatibility with existing aircraft and infrastructure.
“Illinois’s position as a hub of innovation aligns with the work of companies like United to build a more sustainable future for travel,”said Pritzker.
United’s President, Brett Hart, highlighted the importance of combining innovation, leadership, and policy to advance SAF usage. The airline’s efforts include pushing for legislative support, such as the SAF Blender’s Tax Credit and state-level tax credits, to expand SAF’s market presence.
Additionally, United has been proactive in rallying the business community to support sustainable aviation through initiatives like the Eco-Skies AllianceSM, where participating companies share the costs associated with purchasing SAF. Since its inception in 2021, the alliance has collectively contributed to the purchase of over 10.5 million gallons of SAF.
About United Airlines: United Airlines, headquartered in Chicago, operates one of the world’s most comprehensive global route networks. Committed to sustainability, United has been a leader in advocating for SAF and other carbon reduction initiatives in aviation.
Sources:
- United Airlines. (2024). United is First Airline to Purchase Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) for O’Hare International Airport. Retrieved from United Airlines
