Airlines including Jet2 and EasyJet are lobbying the UK Government to allow the use of crops to produce sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), a move that environmental groups warn could drive up food prices and harm the environment. The Government opened a call for evidence in December after pressure from airlines and the fuel industry, who argue that such a change would help decarbonise flights while keeping costs low.
The i Paper has seen letters and reports from airlines and fuel companies urging ministers to approve crop-based SAF. However, critics caution that diverting crops for fuel could raise food prices and exacerbate land-use issues. The debate comes as airlines face legal requirements to use SAF to lower emissions.
Meanwhile, the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, expected under a US peace deal with Tehran, could ease global fuel supply pressures. The strait's closure had driven up oil, gas, and fertiliser prices, with UK farmers facing a 50-70% rise in fertiliser costs. However, experts say any fuel price relief may not immediately lower airline ticket prices, though it could boost sector optimism.
