United became the first airline to purchase sustainable aviation fuel1 (SAF) for use at O’Hare International Airport (ORD). SAF producer Neste will provide up to 1 million gallons of Neste MY Sustainable Aviation Fuel to United at ORD in 2024.
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United was the first airline to create a goal of reaching net zero greenhouse gas emission by 2050, without relying on voluntary carbon offsets, and remains a U.S. industry leader in the purchase and use of SAF. The airline purchased more sustainable fuel than any U.S. airline in 2023 and the agreement with Neste makes O’Hare the fifth airport where United has purchased SAF for operational use – among the most locations of any U.S. airline.
“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,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Illinois’s 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.”
SAF is an alternative to conventional jet fuel that can reduce GHG emissions by up to 85% on a lifecycle basis – from production to end use – because it is made from renewable materials rather than drilled fossil oil. SAF is among aviation’s best, most scalable options to push the industry towards net zero emissions in part because it can be used right now with existing infrastructure – no changes to fuel systems or aircraft engines required.
“This is what happens when innovation, leadership and policy come together,” said United President Brett Hart, who was at ORD today with the Governor. “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 now purchased SAF for airports in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, London, and Amsterdam.