In December 2025, the Union Minister of State (MoS) for the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA), Murlidhar Mohol, announced a significant step towards sustainability in aviation. The Government of India (GoI) has formally approved Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) blending targets, which aim to enhance the environmental performance of the aviation sector.
The approved blending targets are as follows: 1% by 2027, 2% by 2028, and 5% by 2030. These initial targets will apply primarily to international flights departing from India. Furthermore, all operational and upcoming Greenfield airports have been mandated by MoCA to strive for carbon neutrality and achieve net-zero emissions.
Currently, India boasts 93 airports that have transitioned to 100% green energy usage, showcasing the country’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
The primary objective of these SAF blending targets is to significantly reduce carbon emissions associated with the aviation sector. By implementing these measures, India aims to align with global efforts to combat climate change and promote sustainable aviation.
India’s initiatives are in line with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) backed programs, such as:
LTAG is a non-binding framework that assesses each state’s unique circumstances and capabilities, allowing nations to set their own timelines for achieving the net-zero target. In this context, India has committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2070.
In addition to SAF blending targets, India is actively participating in the ICAO-backed Assistance, Capacity-building and Training for Sustainable Aviation Fuels (ACT-SAF) program. This involvement underscores India's dedication to exploring innovative solutions within the aviation sector.
Through these collective efforts, India is making significant strides toward a more sustainable aviation future, ensuring that the industry not only meets the growing demands of air travel but also adheres to environmental responsibilities.
Q1. What are the SAF blending targets set by India?
Answer: India has set SAF blending targets of 1% by 2027, 2% by 2028, and 5% by 2030, specifically for international flights.
Q2. Which airports in India are transitioning to green energy?
Answer: Currently, a total of 93 airports in India have switched to 100% green energy usage as part of the government's sustainability initiatives.
Q3. What is CORSIA and its significance for India?
Answer: CORSIA is the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation, requiring member states to offset emissions exceeding the 2019 baseline starting in 2027, which India must comply with.
Q4. What is India's commitment to net-zero emissions?
Answer: India has pledged to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070, in alignment with global climate goals and ICAO's LTAG initiative.
Q5. How does the ACT-SAF program contribute to sustainable aviation?
Answer: The ACT-SAF program focuses on assistance and capacity-building for Sustainable Aviation Fuels, promoting research and development in the aviation sector for greener technologies.
Question 1: What is the SAF blending target for India by 2027?
A) 2%
B) 3%
C) 1%
D) 5%
Correct Answer: C
Question 2: What is the primary objective of SAF blending targets in India?
A) Increase air travel
B) Reduce carbon emissions
C) Enhance airport infrastructure
D) Promote tourism
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: By what year does India aim for net-zero emissions in aviation?
A) 2040
B) 2050
C) 2070
D) 2060
Correct Answer: C
Question 4: Which program supports capacity-building for Sustainable Aviation Fuels in India?
A) CORSIA
B) LTAG
C) ACT-SAF
D) ICAO
Correct Answer: C
Question 5: What is the total number of Indian airports that have switched to green energy?
A) 50
B) 93
C) 100
D) 75
Correct Answer: B
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