New Delhi: In a major boost to India’s green aviation ambitions, Air India and Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) on Tuesday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the supply of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). The agreement is seen as a landmark step in the country’s efforts to decarbonize air transport and meet international climate commitments.
The MoU was formalized by Shailesh Dhar, Executive Director (Aviation), IndianOil, and P. Balaji, Group Head – GRC & Corporate Affairs, Air India, in the presence of AS Sahney, Chairman, IndianOil, and Campbell Wilson, CEO & Managing Director, Air India.
IndianOil Becomes India’s First ISCC-CORSIA Certified SAF Producer
Highlighting its readiness to supply globally compliant green fuels, IndianOil recently became the first Indian company to receive ISCC CORSIA certification for SAF production at its Panipat refinery. This international certification allows IndianOil to provide fuel aligned with the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA), under the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
“With our ISCC-CORSIA-certified SAF, IndianOil is ready to provide a sustainable fuel solution that will help decarbonize air travel,” said IndianOil Chairman AS Sahney.
Air India Aligns with IATA’s Net Zero by 2050 Target
Air India, a Tata Group airline, is actively embracing sustainable practices to meet the International Air Transport Association (IATA)’s Net Zero by 2050 target. The SAF agreement with IndianOil adds to the airline’s ongoing sustainability initiatives, which include:
- Reducing single-use plastics
- Using lightweight onboard materials
- Deploying autonomous electric vehicles for aircraft towing
- Enhancing route planning to minimize emissions
A 570-aircraft fleet renewal programme aimed at making it one of the lowest carbon-emitting fleets globally
“Through this MoU with IndianOil, Air India is committed to supporting India’s sustainable aviation goals while furthering its own Net Zero ambitions,” said Air India CEO Campbell Wilson.
National SAF Target: 5% Blending by 2030
India has set an ambitious target of achieving 5% SAF blending by 2030. With this MoU, both companies are expected to play a pivotal role in building domestic SAF supply chains, reducing dependence on fossil fuels, and reinforcing India’s standing as a global leader in sustainable aviation.
The collaboration is aligned with global decarbonization efforts and supports India’s commitments under international climate frameworks.
About IOCL
Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) is India’s largest state-owned oil and gas company, a Maharatna PSU. It’s a leading energy company with diverse interests spanning the entire hydrocarbon value chain, from refining and transportation to marketing and exploration. IOCL is ranked among the top global energy companies and is a key player in India’s energy sector.
