Test Flight Illustrates TotalEnergies' Methanol-to-SAF Capability

In a groundbreaking development during the COP28 conference in Dubai, TotalEnergies SE successfully executed the first test flight showcasing the potential conversion of methanol into sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).

TotalEnergies revealed in a media release that the test flight utilized the alcohol-to-jet synthetic paraffinic kerosene pathway (ATJ-SPK). Notably, this pathway received certification in 2016 for meeting international standards for jet fuel; however, it's important to note that methanol was not initially specified among the listed alcohols.

The flight itself relied on a blend of aviation fuel derived from olefins, a key component that contributes to the certification process for this innovative SAF production pathway from methanol. TotalEnergies emphasized that this test flight serves as a crucial step toward supporting the certification of the methanol-based pathway for sustainable aviation fuel.

With the potential for derivation from renewable electricity, this new pathway could pave the way for the production of electrofuels for sustainable aviation fuel, commonly referred to as eSAF. TotalEnergies sees eSAF as an essential lever in addressing the formidable challenge of producing sustainable aviation fuel globally and decarbonizing the aviation industry.

Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, CEO of Masdar, highlighted the significance of the Dubai Framework for Sustainable Aviation Fuel, characterizing it as a noteworthy stride toward a more sustainable future in aviation. He expressed the shared ambition of Masdar and TotalEnergies in advancing SAF development, contributing to ongoing efforts to decarbonize the aviation sector. Al Ramahi underscored the substantial potential of SAF in mitigating carbon emissions in the hard-to-abate aviation sector, reaffirming Masdar's commitment through strategic partnerships in this vital area.

Patrick Pouyanne, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of TotalEnergies, emphasized the collective responsibility of industry and energy companies to pioneer the next generation of clean aviation fuels. He stressed the importance of this novel pathway to jet, facilitated through e-SAF, as a critical component in supporting the overarching goal of decarbonizing the aviation industry. Pouyanne's statement reflects TotalEnergies' commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation and sustainability in the quest for cleaner aviation solutions.

The successful test flight in Dubai signifies a groundbreaking achievement in the pursuit of sustainable aviation fuel. TotalEnergies, in collaboration with key partners, has demonstrated the viability of converting methanol into SAF, marking a crucial step toward decarbonizing the aviation industry. The utilization of innovative pathways and the exploration of eSAF underscore the commitment of industry leaders like TotalEnergies and Masdar to shaping a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future for aviation. This pioneering effort not only showcases technological advancements but also underscores the collaborative spirit required to address the challenges of climate change in the aviation sector.