Sustainable Aviation Fuels and their impact in commercial airport operation

With global air traffic projected to grow annually by approximately 3.8%, the aviation sector faces increasing pressure to implement effective strategies for mitigating its environmental impact, particularly with respect to greenhouse gas emissions. Sustainable Aviation Fuels represent a critical pathway for decarbonizing aviation by offering a lower-emission alternative to conventional jet fuels. This study evaluates the environmental impact of SAFs on specific operational phases of flight, with a focus on the landing and take-off cycle. A case study was conducted at Lisbon Airport using real aircraft movement data over a one-week period. Emissions were calculated by correlating aircraft engine types with data from the ICAO Engine Exhaust Emissions Databank. The analysis identifies the most emission-intensive flight phase, the most polluting fleet, and evaluates the potential GHG reductions achievable through the use of various SAF pathways. Additionally, operational alternatives for reducing emissions during the taxi phase, including APU management strategies, are examined. The results provide actionable insights into the role of SAFs in reducing airport-level emissions and support targeted interventions for more sustainable airport operations. • Sustainable aviation fuels cut CO2 by up to 78% vs. jet fuel at Lisbon Airport. • Idle/taxi phase emits most in landing and takeoof cycle due to duration—key target for mitigation. • Short/medium-haul jets lead emissions; A321 CEO emits most CO 2 per LTO cycle. • Fischer-Tropsch and Hydroprocessed Esters and Fatty Acids cut CO 2 e most; FT needs 3.7% more fuel due to lower energy density.