Detroit Airport Embraces Sustainable Aviation Fuel: A Green Milestone for Air Travel
Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW) is taking a bold step toward a greener future by becoming the first airport in the region to integrate Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) into its operations. This landmark achievement is made possible by Montana Renewables, LLC (MRL), the largest producer of SAF in North America, marking a significant shift towards sustainable air travel.
The integration of SAF at DTW is a crucial step in the aviation industry’s ongoing efforts to reduce its carbon footprint and mitigate the environmental impact of air travel. MRL’s recent delivery of 7,000 gallons of SAF to the Buckeye Pipeline facility in Dearborn, Michigan, is a testament to their commitment to renewable energy solutions. The fuel will be transported directly to DTW via pipeline, where it will power Delta Air Lines flights.
MRL, headquartered in Great Falls, Montana, stands at the forefront of the renewable fuel industry. Their commitment to sustainability is evident in their diverse range of products, including SAF, renewable diesel, hydrogen, and naphtha. MRL’s innovative production process utilizes a variety of sustainable, low-carbon feedstocks sourced from Pacific Northwest farms and ranches. These feedstocks include tallow, distillers corn oil, canola oil, used cooking oil, and a key innovation – camelina oil. This unique blend of ingredients results in renewable transportation fuels that have a significantly lower environmental impact than conventional fossil fuels.
The use of camelina oil as a feedstock for SAF is particularly noteworthy. Not only is it a sustainable and renewable source, but it also offers farmers an additional income stream, creating economic benefits for rural communities. This dual benefit of environmental sustainability and economic growth is a hallmark of MRL’s commitment to responsible energy production.
Beyond its environmental benefits, MRL’s operations also provide significant economic advantages to the Great Falls community. As a leading business in the region, MRL fosters economic growth by creating high-paying jobs and offering long-term career opportunities for local residents. Their commitment to community engagement further strengthens their impact.
The integration of SAF at DTW aligns with broader efforts to address climate change and promote sustainable practices in the aviation industry. SAF, a blend of synthetic paraffinic kerosene (SPK) and conventional jet fuel, meets stringent industry standards (ASTM D7566 and ASTM D1655) and is fully compatible with existing aviation fueling infrastructure and aircraft engine technology.
“Supplying the SAF to DTW marks another significant milestone in the decarbonization of air travel,” said Bruce Fleming, CEO of MRL. “Not only does it bring SAF to Detroit flights, but we are especially pleased to pioneer camelina oil as a non-food renewable that provides additional cash crop potential for farmers.”
This advancement is a testament to the industry’s commitment to a sustainable future and highlights the growing trend toward renewable energy solutions in the transportation sector. As more airlines embrace SAF, the future of air travel looks cleaner and more sustainable, a positive step towards a greener planet.