Soaring Toward Sustainability: Insights From The New Global Business Aviation Outlook

The aviation industry is at a pivotal crossroads, balancing growth with the urgent need for sustainability.

As revealed in Honeywell’s 33rd annual Global Business Aviation Outlook, the demand for business jets continues to rise, with forecasts predicting the delivery of up to 8,500 new aircraft valued at $280 billion over the next decade. This growth presents a unique opportunity for the aircraft industry to integrate sustainable practices, including the use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).

The Business of Sustainability

As the business aviation sector expands, so does the responsibility to minimize its environmental impact. Honeywell’s commitment to achieving carbon neutrality in its operations by 2035 underscores the urgency of this mission.

In our annual survey, operators highlighted that transitioning to more fuel-efficient aircraft is considered the most effective strategy for lowering their carbon footprint. Nearly 85% of respondents recognized this method as “very effective” or “moderately effective,” and it ranked the number one sustainability method among respondents taking proactive measures (60%). This alignment highlights the industry’s focus on the sustainability benefits of newer aircraft and technologies.

Obstacles to Adoption of SAF

Currently, 55% of proactive operators are incorporating SAF into their operations. However, significant barriers remain.

According to Kevin Schwab, Strategic Planning Manager at Honeywell Aerospace Technologies, “When we asked operators what they perceived as the obstacles for more widespread adoption of SAF in business aviation, nearly one in four listed lack of awareness as a top obstacle. We believe we can mitigate this with more widespread industry education.”

Beyond lack of awareness, misconceptions over the effectiveness of SAF’s environmental impact also seem to hinder broader adoption, with over one-third of respondents ranking it as a top obstacle. Schwab said the aviation industry needs continue communicating that SAF can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80% compared to traditional jet fuel. Numerous studies demonstrate SAF blends can be highly effective drop-in replacements for Jet A fuel, with no discernible difference in performance or engine reliability.

Honeywell is at the forefront of SAF development, with engines already certified to use 50% SAF blends, with plans to adopt 100% SAF by the end of the decade. We’re actively developing the next generation of gas turbine engines that are lighter, quieter and more powerful – all while running on 100% SAF. Additionally, our innovations in aircraft electrification and hydrogen fuel cells will further reduce the environmental impact of business aviation.

Charting a Sustainable Flight Plan

As we look to the future of business aviation, integrating sustainable technologies and practices is critical.

You can read more about current aviation industry trends, aviation forecasting and longer-cycle developments in our 33rd annual Global Business Aviation Outlook.