The President of the Asia-Pacific Airlines Association has emphasized Singapore's proposed SAF levy as a crucial initiative to accelerate the adoption of cleaner fuels in the aviation industry. The levy, which will be applied to airline tickets starting in 2026, aims to motivate airlines and travelers to support sustainable fuels that reduce carbon emissions.
Subhas Menon, the association's director general, noted that the levy is designed to encourage greater production and use of SAF, with a direct portion of the revenue assigned to procurement efforts managed by Singapore’s newly established SAF company. He mentioned that while many passengers express support for environmental initiatives, financial incentives like the SAF surcharge serve as effective reminders of commitment to sustainability.
He underlined regional variations in policies, with countries such as Japan and Malaysia pursuing different pathways—including public-private partnerships and domestic capacity building—to expand SAF use. He further stressed the importance of government involvement in strengthening the aviation supply chain, which could include developing regional suppliers, maintenance facilities, and fostering innovation.
Concerns about safety regulations regarding lithium-ion batteries on flights were also raised, with Menon advocating for clearer and consistent guidelines issued by regulators. He clarified that the SAF levy exemplifies Singapore’s proactive stance and its intention to lead by example in the region, even as other countries craft their own policies to promote sustainable aviation fuels.
Overall, the message is that collaborative efforts between governments, airlines, and industry bodies are essential for achieving broader adoption of SAF, which is a key component of aviation’s future environmental strategy.
