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Airbus Sees Unique Potential in Brazil to Lead Sustainable Aviation Fuel Production
The Brazil stands out as a strong candidate for global leadership in sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).
This statement was made by the president of Airbus in Latin America and the Caribbean, Arturo Barreira, in an interview.
He highlighted that the country has natural and industrial competitive advantages, positioning it favorably in the global scenario.
Moreover, Airbus is actively involved in developing initiatives in Brazil, participating in discussions about the Future Fuel Bill, which sets targets for SAF use in commercial flights.
Strategic Cooperation Between Airbus and Brazilian Government Strengthens the Sector
Barreira stated that the strength of Brazil could transform it into a global reference in aviation sustainability.
He explained that Airbus is constantly collaborating with the federal government and the National Congress to create public policies.
The president of Airbus in Brazil, Gilberto Peralta, participated in hearings in Congress, which reinforces the company’s commitment to the country. According to Barreira, Brazil combines modern infrastructure, high productive capacity, and solid technological advancement.
Thus, the partnership between Airbus, Petrobras, and public authorities is likely to boost the development of the sector and accelerate the energy transition in aviation.
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Petrobras Inaugurates National Milestone in SAF Production
As Airbus expands its operations, Petrobras is rapidly advancing in the production of aerial biofuel.
On October 15, 2025, the state-owned company announced that the Duque de Caxias Refinery (Reduc), in Rio de Janeiro, became the first certified unit in the country to produce SAF. The monthly capacity of the plant reaches 50,000 cubic meters, demonstrating Brazil’s production power.
The fuel is produced through the HEFA route, which combines vegetable oils and fats with petroleum streams, allowing for direct mixing with conventional kerosene. This technology ensures the operation of aircraft without the need for modifications.
Additionally, the project reinforces Brazil’s strategic role in the global energy transition, connecting innovation and sustainability.
Airbus Accelerates Certifications and Expands SAF Use in Its Operations
Airbus is steadily advancing in the adaptation of aircraft for biofuel use. Currently, all of the manufacturer’s models operate with up to 50% SAF blend, and the goal is to achieve 100% compatibility by 2030.
Barreira emphasized that the company is working intensely and continuously to prepare the planes, ensuring safety and operational efficiency.
In 2024, the goal was to use 15% SAF in test and delivery flights; however, the results exceeded expectations. The company achieved 18%, which is equivalent to 12,000 tons of sustainable fuel consumed. This performance confirms Airbus’s environmental commitment and demonstrates that the sector is solidly progressing toward reducing emissions.
Combination of Solutions and Carbon Neutrality by 2050
For Barreira, sustainable fuel will be the main driver of global aviation toward carbon neutrality by 2050.
He stressed that achieving this target requires joint efforts and complementary solutions, involving governments, companies, and research centers.
According to the executive, “reaching net zero emissions by 2050 does not depend on a single solution”.
Success will come from the combination of SAF, new technologies, operational efficiency, and environmental offset mechanisms.
In this context, Brazil stands out for its abundance of raw materials, consolidated industrial capacity, and growing international cooperation.
Thus, while Airbus expands certifications and Petrobras increases its production, the country strengthens its position in the global leadership of sustainable aviation.
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