Embraer is to increase its uptake of Neste MY Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) through Avfuel at Melbourne Orlando International airport in Florida to one load per week.

The duo first entered into a SAF agreement in July 2021 in support of Embraer's flight operations out of Melbourne, with Avfuel delivering one 8,000 gallon truckload of Neste MY SAF per quarter to Sheltair Aviation, the FBO that provides storage and handling services for Embraer at the airport.

With the updated weekly agreement commencing in April, the extended partnership is expected to result in a total of 240,000 US gallons of SAF delivered to Embraer in 2024, representing a significant increase when compared to previous years. Each truckload will provide a 19 metric ton reduction in carbon emissions, resulting in a 570 metric ton reduction in carbon emission for the year.

"Embraer's collaboration with Avfuel and Sheltair marks a pivotal milestone in our journey toward net-zero emission flight operations," says Michael Amalfitano, president and CEO of Embraer Executive Jets. "Our continued investment in SAF demonstrates our dedication to reducing emissions today and driving the industry closer to the net-zero aviation goal by 2050."

CR Sincock II, Avfuel executive vice president, adds: "Embraer has been a steadfast partner in SAF adoption from day one. We are proud to play a part in its impressive sustainability journey by drastically increasing SAF supply to help fulfil its team's admirable sustainability goals. The Avfuel team also extends its gratitude to Sheltair for the pivotal role it plays in making this agreement possible with industry-leading fuel safety and handling services."

Leonel Rivera, senior vice president of FBO operations for Sheltair, says: "Sheltair is excited to support Embraer by handling and storing these SAF deliveries. This collaboration between Sheltair, Embraer and Avfuel shows our commitment to reaching the industry's goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. By combining our knowledge and resources, we will be able to handle and store weekly fuel deliveries of SAF."

Embraer's investment in SAF will primarily support flight demonstrations, deliveries and production flights in Melbourne.