News I iCET Conducts Thematic Exchange on Sustainable Aviation Fuel with CAAC Second Research Institute
On October 22, 2024, the Innovation Center for Energy and Transportation (iCET) held a thematic exchange with the Second Research Institute of the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC). The session focused on the current status and future development trends of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), providing an opportunity for both sides to share research findings, industry experience, and explore cooperation and innovation in advancing sustainable aviation fuels.
Participants from the Second Research Institute included Xia Zuxi, Director of the Airworthiness Certification Center for Aviation Fuel and Aviation Chemicals; Yang Zhiyuan, Director of the Airworthiness Certification Division; and Wang Biyao, Associate Researcher at the Certification Center. The institute undertakes technical support for civil aviation in areas such as airworthiness performance of aviation chemical products, aviation fuel airworthiness certification, and civil aviation energy conservation and emissions monitoring. As an active contributor to SAF research and development, the institute is committed to promoting sustainable aviation fuel solutions aligned with broader sustainability objectives. Through collaborations with domestic and international aviation, petrochemical, and research organizations, it conducts both fundamental and applied studies on SAF production pathways, technical routes, and performance verification.
During the exchange, the two sides engaged in in-depth discussions on the critical role of SAF in supporting carbon neutrality goals and reducing aviation sector emissions. Dialogue centered on strategies to accelerate SAF technology deployment and commercialization, strengthen policy support and standardization, and enhance coordination across the industry value chain.
Dr. An Feng, Honorary Executive Director of iCET, emphasized that SAF plays a pivotal role in the global aviation sector’s transition toward sustainability. At this key moment of industry transformation, he noted the importance of increasing R&D investment, optimizing production processes, and reducing costs to enhance market competitiveness. He also stressed the need for stronger policy incentives—encouraging airlines to adopt SAF and supporting energy enterprises in scaling up SAF production