Ryanair has purchased 1,000 tonnes of SAF from Shell through a MoU signed in 2022 granting Ryanair exclusive access to purchase up to 360,000 tonnes of SAF from Shell between 2025 and 2030 saving up to 900,000 tonnes in CO2 emissions.
Ryanair, Europe’s leading airline, has announced a significant step towards decarbonization with the purchase of 1,000 tonnes of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) from global energy group Shell. This purchase, equivalent to fueling over 200 flights from Stansted to Madrid, marks the airline’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and achieving net zero emissions by 2050. The agreement between Ryanair and Shell, established through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in 2022, grants Ryanair exclusive access to purchase up to 360,000 tonnes of SAF from Shell between 2025 and 2030. This collaboration has the potential to save up to 900,000 tonnes in CO2 emissions, further solidifying Ryanair’s dedication to sustainability.
This latest announcement at the event held at Stansted Airport highlights Ryanair’s ongoing efforts to decarbonize its operations. The airline has been actively pursuing sustainable aviation initiatives, including collaborations with institutions like Trinity College Dublin through the Ryanair Sustainable Aviation Research Centre.
Thomas Fowler, Director of Sustainability and Finance, Ryanair said,“Ryanair continues to lead the way in sustainable aviation. As demonstrated today at Stansted, by using SAF, the latest engine technologies and electric ground handling equipment, we are making significant investments to decarbonise our operations and achieve our commitments of net zero carbon emissions by 2050 and 25% less CO2 emissions per passenger/km by 2031. Our partners at Shell and MAG are key enablers of these goals, and today’s announcement of Ryanair’s purchase of 1,000 tonnes of SAF from Shell is testament to that. We will continue to work with our partners across the network to make every Ryanair flight as environmentally efficient as possible.”
Fowler reiterated Ryanair’s ambitious goals, aiming for net zero carbon emissions by 2050 and a 25% reduction in CO2 emissions per passenger/km by 2031. He credited partners like Shell and Manchester Airports Group (MAG) for their support in achieving these objectives. The purchase of 1,000 tonnes of SAF from Shell underscores the airline’s commitment to environmental sustainability and its collaborative efforts with industry partners.
Ashleigh McDougall, GM Aviation Europe and South Africa, Shell said, “Shell is delighted to have started supplying sustainable aviation fuel to Ryanair at Stansted Airport, helping a valued customer reduce emissions on flights from a crucial UK transport hub. Having signed a Memorandum of Understanding to supply SAF to Ryanair in 2022, we’re pleased to see intentions converted into actions as we continue to support our customers on their decarbonisation journeys.”
The use of sustainable aviation fuel is a crucial step in reducing the aviation industry’s carbon footprint. SAF offers significant lifecycle CO2 emissions reductions compared to conventional jet fuel, with potential reductions of up to 80%. By embracing SAF and other sustainable practices, Ryanair and Shell are leading the way in driving environmental sustainability within the aviation sector.
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In conclusion, Ryanair’s purchase of sustainable aviation fuel from Shell represents a significant milestone in the airline’s journey towards decarbonization. With ambitious targets and strong partnerships in place, Ryanair is poised to continue making strides in reducing its environmental impact while maintaining its position as Europe’s foremost airline.
