SOCAR Turkey, Türkiye’s largest direct foreign investor and integrated industry group, is starting to trade Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) in order to accelerate the sustainability-oriented transformation in the energy sector and contribute to the reduction of aviation-related carbon emissions. In line with its approach that puts low-carbon solutions at the center of its business model, the company launched its first commercial operation in the SAF field on January 29, 2026.
In line with its approach to support the development of the Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) ecosystem, SOCAR Turkey aims to contribute to the transformation steps towards emission reduction in aviation by strengthening its collaborations with sector stakeholders.
In this context, a “Memorandum of Understanding” covering cooperation in the field of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) was signed between SOCAR Türkiye and Turkish Airlines on 13 August 2025; The two institutions agreed on sustainability-focused strategic steps in the energy and aviation sectors. The first commercial operation to be implemented constitutes an important stage of this cooperation.
SOCAR Türkiye CEO Elchin Ibadov, In his evaluation on the subject, he said: “We see sustainability as one of the fundamental elements of our way of doing business; we act with a transformation approach that considers environmental and social impacts. Our extensive knowledge in the energy sector and our integrated business model allow us to take concrete steps for a sustainable future. Our Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) initiative, which we carry out with the capacity, R&D power and digital competence of our group company STAR Refinery, is also an important reflection of this vision. We believe that our work in the field of jet fuel will develop further in the coming period and We believe that it will pave the way for new collaborations. As SOCAR Türkiye, we will continue our work and investments that focus on environmental and social benefit with determination.”
SAF produced from renewable resources is an important option for emission reduction
Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), produced in accordance with the sustainability criteria set by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and ICAO, can provide significantly lower life cycle emissions compared to conventional jet fuel, subject to suitable raw materials and life cycle assessment (LCA) conditions. HEFA-based SAF, obtained from suitable renewable resources such as used frying oils and other biological wastes, is considered one of the important tools defined in international frameworks for emission reduction in the aviation sector.
Automobile Magazine – English
