Plan Your Holidays Wisely: SAF Travel Guide Shows How Slower SAF Growth and New Mandates Could Influence Airline Fares and Routes

Published on December 10, 2025

Sustainable Aviation Fuel, often called SAF, is becoming central to the future of flying. Airlines, governments and industry groups view SAF as one of the strongest tools for reducing carbon emissions in aviation. But recent industry data shows that SAF production is growing more slowly than expected. This slowdown is important for travelers because it may influence future fares, airline choices and long-term travel planning.

In its latest outlook, the global aviation industry expects about 1.9 million tonnes of SAF to be available in 2025. That equals only a small fraction of the world’s total jet fuel demand. Production growth in 2026 is also expected to rise at a slower pace than earlier forecasts. The gap between demand and supply could create pricing pressure and higher operating costs for airlines.

For tourists planning international trips in 2025 and 2026, these developments signal a shift in how airlines operate and how governments regulate aviation fuel.

Why SAF matters for travelers

SAF is cleaner than traditional jet fuel. It creates fewer lifecycle emissions and can be blended safely into aircraft fuel systems under global aviation standards. Governments around the world support SAF because it helps move aviation toward long-term climate goals.

Europe and the United Kingdom already have mandates that require airlines and fuel suppliers to increase SAF use over time. These rules are designed to grow the SAF market, encourage new production plants and support long-term fuel transition. However, these mandates also increase compliance requirements for airlines. When supply is tight, airlines may face higher procurement costs. Travelers might see some of these costs reflected in airfares.

For global tourists, this does not mean sudden price spikes. But it does mean greater variation in pricing across routes and airlines as carriers navigate different regional rules and costs.

How slower supply can influence your ticket

When SAF production is limited and costs remain high, airlines may adjust their operations. Some carriers may shift pricing strategies. Others may optimize routes or modify seasonal schedules. Fuel is one of the biggest expenses in aviation. Any rise in fuel cost — even a small one — can influence ticket prices.

Airlines that fly mostly within Europe or the UK may see the greatest impact because mandates apply directly in these markets. Long-haul travelers connecting through major European hubs may need to pay closer attention to fare patterns, especially during holiday seasons.

Even so, it is important to understand that many airlines are working aggressively to secure more SAF contracts. Some carriers are partnering with future SAF plants. Others have announced long-term procurement plans to stabilize costs. Travelers benefit when airlines take this approach because stable supply reduces volatility in ticket prices.

Guidance for travelers deciding when and how to book

1. Review the airline’s sustainability plan.
Airlines now publish detailed sustainability commitments. These documents explain how much SAF they plan to use and how they prepare for future mandates. Reading these pages gives you insight into how well the airline is positioned to manage fuel changes.

2. Compare total travel cost, not just the base fare.
A higher ticket price may reflect a carrier’s investment in SAF, efficient fleets or greener operations. Look at the full trip value, including reliability and environmental impact.

3. Consider booking flexible or semi-flexible tickets.
As the industry adjusts to new rules, schedules may shift. Flexibility helps protect your travel plans, particularly on long-haul routes through regions with strict SAF mandates.

4. Select airlines with credible SAF procurement strategies.
Carriers that work closely with government-approved SAF suppliers or participate in certified reporting programs often manage costs better. This can translate into more stable ticket prices.

5. Think about carbon impact holistically.
If environmental impact matters to you, remember that SAF provides measurable emissions reductions. You can choose airlines that publicly share verified fuel data and progress reports.

Looking ahead for global tourists

Travelers should expect SAF to remain a major theme in aviation for the next decade. Governments will continue to introduce frameworks that expand SAF production. Airlines will keep adjusting their fuel strategies. As a traveler, staying informed helps you plan smarter and budget better.

The aviation sector believes SAF is a critical pathway toward a cleaner future. While production is growing slower than expected, the global commitment remains strong. Travelers who understand how this transition works will be better prepared for upcoming seasons, long-haul planning and greener flying choices.