On Wednesday, United Airlines announced it had become the first airline to purchase sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) for use at O’Hare International Airport (ORD).
Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker joined United’s leadership at ORD to celebrate the role the state played in the move, noting the state’s SAF tax credits helped bring SAF to one of the largest airports in the country. Officials said the first supply of SAF will arrive at the airport in August.
“Since day one as Governor, I’ve committed to making Illinois a national leader in sustainability and clean energy, which is why I was proud to support a nation-leading SAF tax credit last year,” Pritzker said. “Illinois’ position as a hub of innovation with some of the most connected airports in the country perfectly aligns with the work of companies like United to build a more sustainable future for travel and reach our shared goal of zero emissions.”
United will purchase up to 1 million gallons of Neste MY Sustainable Aviation Fuel through the end of the year, officials said. O’Hare is the fifth airport where United has purchased SAF for operational use. United was also the first airline to identify reaching net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, without relying on voluntary carbon offsets, as a goal. Last year, the airline purchased more sustainable fuel than any U.S. airline.
“This is what happens when innovation, leadership and policy come together,” United President Brett Hart. “While the market for SAF is still in its infancy, there is a huge opportunity today for airlines and policymakers to work together to support its continued growth – SAF at O’Hare was made possible thanks to Governor Pritzker and the Illinois Legislature passing tax incentives.”
United has purchased SAF for airports in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, London and Amsterdam.