IATA Director General Criticizes EU's Costly Sustainable Aviation Fuel Mandate, Warns of Tariff Uncertainty Impact on Airlines

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has intensified its criticism of the European Union's sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) mandate, describing it as a costly policy that fails to deliver environmental benefits due to limited regional supply. IATA's Director General highlighted that the geopolitical challenges currently affecting airlines are unprecedented, exacerbating operational difficulties. He also questioned the logic behind the EU's external procurement of sustainable aviation fuel, stating it does not make much sense. Additionally, IATA warned that airlines might be hesitant to accept new aircraft because of tariff uncertainties, which could increase aircraft costs.