United Airlines has become the first airline to purchase sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) for use at O’Hare International Airport (ORD).
SAF producer Neste will provide up to one million gallons of Neste MY Sustainable Aviation Fuel™ to the airline at ORD in 2024 with the first supply arriving in August.
United Airlines remains a US industry leader in the purchase and use of SAF; the airline purchased more sustainable fuel than any US airline in 2023 and the agreement with Neste makes ORD the fifth airport where United Airlines has purchased SAF for operational use – among the most locations of any US airline.
Governor JB Pritzker joined the airline’s leadership at ORD on July 31 to highlight the role that Illinois’ SAF tax credits played in bringing SAF to one of the largest airports in the US.
Governor Pritzker said: “Since day one as Governor, I’ve committed to making Illinois a national leader in sustainability and clean energy, which is why I was proud to support a nation-leading SAF tax credit last year.
“Illinois’s position as a hub of innovation with some of the most connected airports in the country perfectly aligns with the work of companies like United to build a more sustainable future for travel and reach our shared goal of zero emissions.”
United Airlines’ president Brett Hart, said: “This is what happens when innovation, leadership and policy come together. While the market for SAF is still in its infancy, there is a huge opportunity today for airlines and policymakers to work together to support its continued growth – SAF at O’Hare was made possible thanks to Governor Pritzker and the Illinois Legislature passing tax incentives.”
United Airlines has now purchased SAF for airports in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, London, and Amsterdam.
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