Golden State Today

Governor Gavin Newsom has announced a new partnership aimed at reducing carbon emissions from aviation in California. The agreement, formed between Airlines for America (A4A) and the California Air Resources Board (CARB), focuses on increasing the use of sustainable aviation fuels within the state. By 2035, the goal is to have 200 million gallons of sustainable aviation fuel available, meeting approximately 40% of California's intrastate travel demand.

Governor Newsom stated, "California and the aviation industry are joining forces to tackle emissions head-on. We’ve put the tools in place to incentivize cleaner fuels and spur innovation, creating opportunities like this to radically change how Californians can travel cleaner. This is a major step forward in our work to cut pollution, protect our communities, and build a future of cleaner air and innovative climate solutions."

The initiative builds on the state's Low Carbon Fuel Standard program, which has encouraged alternative fuel development. CARB Chair Liane Randolph commented on the significance of this collaboration: “California is once again demonstrating that smart climate action is good for the environment and good for business,” she said. “This partnership with the nation’s leading airlines brings the aviation industry onboard to advance a clean air future and will help accelerate development of sustainable fuel options and promote cleaner air travel within the state.”

Members of A4A include major airlines such as Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, FedEx, United Airlines, among others. Kevin Welsh from A4A expressed enthusiasm about this initiative: “A4A is pleased to launch a partnership with CARB focused on protecting the environment, reducing emissions, and increasing the use of SAF in California and across the country,” he said.

The key goals outlined by CARB and A4A include working with sustainable aviation fuel producers and other stakeholders to ensure cost-competitive options are available by 2035. They plan to identify policies that encourage investment in these fuels while forming a Sustainable Aviation Fuel Working Group that will monitor progress annually.

In addition, CARB intends to create a public website offering information on jet fuel availability and relevant incentives.