United Airlines Pioneers Sustainable Aviation Fuel at O’Hare

United Airlines (UA) becomes first to purchase sustainable aviation fuel, SAF for use at O’Hare International Airport.

The airline announced on July 31, 2024, that it has partnered with Neste to supply up to 1 million gallons of Neste MY Sustainable Aviation Fuel™ to O’Hare in 2024, with the first delivery scheduled for August.

United Expands SAF Use

United noted that it has purchased more sustainable fuel than any U.S. airline in 2023, solidifying its position as a leader in the industry.

The agreement with Neste marks O’Hare as the fifth airport where United has procured SAF for operational use, surpassing other U.S. airlines in SAF deployment.

United has purchased SAF for airports in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, London, and Amsterdam.

SAF Highlights, Broader Sustainability Roadmap

SAF is an alternative to conventional jet fuel that can reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs) by up to 85% on a lifecycle basis. 

Produced from renewable materials, SAF offers a viable pathway to decarbonising the aviation industry.

United was the first airline to create a goal of reaching net zero greenhouse gas emission by 2050, without relying on voluntary carbon offsets.

The airline’s broader sustainability strategy includes operational efficiencies, fuel-efficient fleet modernisation, using SAF, and investment in low-carbon technologies and alternate propulsion technologies.