Industry Expert Warns of Sustainability Challenges Amid Rising Prices and Supply Shortages

IATA Director General Willie Walsh criticized the EU’s Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) mandates as failing to address the root causes of delays and sustainability challenges. The industry is facing significant hurdles in meeting ambitious climate targets due to supply scarcity and rising prices. Walsh emphasized the need for a more balanced approach that prioritizes both price reduction and increased supply. According to IATA Chief Economist Marie Owens Thomsen, the airline industry could cover its entire SAF needs until 2036 if invested in SAF instead of AI.