Fueling a Green Future: India's First SAF Facility Takes Flight

In a national milestone, Indian Oil Corporation’s Panipat refinery has become the first facility in India certified to produce sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) by converting used cooking oil into jet-grade fuel.

The certification was granted by Swiss-based Cotecna Inspection Group through its Indian arm, following coordinated efforts by the petroleum and aviation ministries, along with the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). The plant is now India’s first certified co-processing facility for SAF, compliant with CORSIA—the UN’s global carbon offset and reduction scheme for international aviation.

India is considering a SAF blending mandate starting at 1% for international flights by 2027, increasing to 2%, with domestic blending to follow. The Panipat achievement marks a significant step toward addressing supply challenges and advancing India’s green aviation ambitions.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.