India drafts mandate for sustainable aviation fuel blending on international routes

India's draft green aviation fuel policy represents a significant step toward decarbonizing the country's rapidly expanding aviation industry. The proposed framework establishes a progressive blending requirement for sustainable aviation fuel on all international flight operations, with fuel suppliers mandated to source SAF from domestic producers where feasible.

Under the phased approach, the blending mandate would reach 5% by 2030, aligning India's targets with global sustainability commitments in aviation. The policy seeks to balance environmental objectives with industry viability by allowing a gradual transition period for airlines and fuel suppliers to adjust their operations and supply chains.

The draft policy underscores India's commitment to promoting renewable energy solutions within the aviation sector while building domestic production capacity for SAF. By linking the blending mandate to locally produced sustainable fuels, the government aims to create economic opportunities and reduce dependence on imports of aviation fuel.

The proposal comes as India's aviation sector experiences robust growth, with increasing passenger traffic and fleet expansion. Implementing SAF blending requirements is expected to position Indian carriers competitively as international aviation bodies tighten environmental regulations and passengers increasingly consider sustainability in travel decisions.