Sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) is gaining traction in the aviation industry, with FedEx leading the way in its adoption. The cargo delivery giant has recently announced that it will be utilizing SAF at five major U. S. airports, including Dallas-Fort Worth International (DFW) and New York John F. Kennedy International (JFK).
FedEx began using SAF to fuel its freighter aircraft at DFW and JFK at the end of 2025, following initiatives at Chicago O’Hare International (ORD), Miami International (MIA), and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). These initiatives were launched in October 2025, May 2025, and October 2025 respectively.
To facilitate this transition, FedEx has partnered with World Fuel Services, Air bp, AEG Fuels, and Neste to deliver SAF to the five airports. In total, 2 million gallons of SAF with a minimum 30% blend will be provided to FedEx at DFW and JFK, while 1 million gallons with the same blend will be delivered at ORD and 3 million gallons at MIA. Neste will also be providing 3 million gallons of SAF to FedEx at LAX.
According to DFW’s VP of environmental affairs and sustainability, Robert Horton, FedEx’s decision to purchase SAF reflects the collaboration between airlines, airports, and fuel providers in promoting sustainable aviation practices. Additionally, FedEx is the first airline to regularly use SAF at DFW.
Karen Blanks Ellis, FedEx’s chief sustainability officer and VP of environmental affairs, states that while there is a strong demand for SAF from both cargo and passenger airlines, production worldwide is currently unable to meet this demand. She emphasizes the need for policies that not only focus on the demand side, but also support and encourage increased production of SAF.
In conclusion, FedEx’s adoption of SAF at major U. S. airports is a step towards reducing emissions in the aviation industry. With the support of airlines, airports, and fuel providers, the hope is that SAF production will increase to meet the growing demand for sustainable aviation practices.
