Indonesia unveils action plan for sustainable aviation fuel development

Indonesia’s Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Investment has launched an action plan aimed at fostering the development of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). The initiative was presented during the Bali International Airshow 2024, with Minister Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan outlining the government’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions in the aviation sector by promoting sustainable fuel alternatives.

The plan is part of Indonesia’s larger strategy to transition from fossil-based aviation fuel to environmentally friendly alternatives like SAF. The roadmap, set to be discussed at an upcoming meeting, will explore the use of local resources such as coconut oil, seaweed, and rice dregs for SAF production.

As part of the action plan, Indonesia will collaborate with state-owned oil company Pertamina and several domestic airlines to conduct further research on SAF development. Luhut emphasised the significance of the plan in addressing climate change and ensuring the nation’s future energy security.

“Our focus is on promoting Indonesia’s rich natural resources to lead the global transition to eco-friendly aviation fuel,” Luhut said during the event, highlighting the country’s potential to become a global leader in SAF production.

The action plan aligns with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)’s Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA), which aims to achieve carbon-neutral growth in the aviation industry by 2027.