President Emmanuel Macron said on Friday that France will invest 200 million euros ($218.78 million) to increase the production of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) as part of efforts to make the French and European aviation industries more environmentally friendly. "The French must be champions of ultra-sober aircraft," Macron stated.
The French President was speaking during a visit to a Safran facility in Villaroche, near Paris, ahead of the Paris Air Show next week. The 200 million euros will significantly contribute to the development of the SAF manufacturing plant in Lacq, southern France.
Aviation is regarded as one of the most difficult industries to decarbonize, with zero-emission aircraft not expected for another decade. In 2021, the aviation sector established a 2050 goal of net zero emissions. The primary route is to widespread adoption of Sustainable Aviation Fuel, which now accounts for 0.1% of aircraft fuel use.