#United States #Alaska Airlines #Honolulu #Hawaiian Airlines #Par Hawaii

Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines Join Forces for Sustainable Aviation Fuel

In an exciting development for sustainable aviation, Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines have formed a partnership with Par Hawaii to advance the production of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) in Hawai'i. This initiative aims to utilize locally grown crops as feedstock to create SAF, significantly reducing carbon emissions generated from air travel.

Pioneering Sustainable Solutions

The collaboration marks a significant step toward a more environmentally friendly future for aviation. Hawaiian and Alaska Airlines will take delivery of the first locally made SAF in early 2026, an achievement that promises to bolster the local economy and support the agricultural sector within the islands. The airlines serve as the leading providers of air travel to and from Hawai'i and are committed to enhancing the sustainability of their operations.

Alanna James, sustainability innovation director at Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines, emphasized the airlines' responsibility to minimize their environmental footprint while ensuring essential air service for the islands' communities. This partnership not only aligns with their long-term vision of reaching net zero carbon emissions but also supports energy independence in Hawai'i.

Utilizing Local Resources

The initiative’s primary focus is on Camelina sativa, commonly known as camelina, a crop recognized for its potential as a feedstock for SAF. Camelina is a high-yield and pest-resistant cover crop that matures within eight to nine weeks, making it an ideal candidate for Hawai'i's agricultural landscape. Its oil seeds can be processed into renewable fuels, like SAF, while the leftover seedcake can serve as nutrient-rich feed for livestock, simultaneously benefiting farmers and reducing waste.

Par Hawaii, the largest producer of energy products in the state, is teaming up with Pono Energy, a subsidiary of Pono Pacific, to develop this innovative crop for fuel production. The first steps have already been initiated, with crop trials being conducted across the islands in partnership with local farms and dairies to assess the best varieties of camelina suited to the region’s climate. The project aims to establish a sustainable, locally sourced fuel supply chain that not only reduces greenhouse gas emissions but also strengthens Hawai'i's agricultural and energy sectors.

Community and Economic Impact

The partnership is expected to generate substantial economic benefits, including job creation and additional revenue streams for local farmers. By fostering a new sector focused on renewable energy, opportunities for local agriculture will expand, and the economic dynamics of the islands will be revitalized. The concept of a circular economy powered by homegrown resources will enable Hawai'i to remain more self-sufficient while reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels.

Chris Bennett, vice president of sustainable energy solutions at Pono Pacific, highlighted the impact of cultivating camelina, stating that the initiative paves the way for a true circular economy surrounding renewable fuels, benefiting both the economy and the environment. Together, these organizations aim to not only meet Hawai'i's transportation needs but also push towards achieving the state's clean energy goals.

Looking Ahead

As Par Hawaii gears up to deliver SAF by early 2026, the collaboration's impact on reducing aviation emissions could be profound. SAF can potentially lower lifecycle carbon emissions by up to 80% compared to traditional jet fuels. However, challenges remain, as SAF tends to cost two to three times more than conventional fuel, and its availability can be limited. Strong partnerships among airlines, fuel and feedstock producers, and government agencies remain crucial to developing the broader SAF industry and achieving decarbonization objectives.

In conclusion, the partnership between Hawaiian Airlines, Alaska Airlines, and Par Hawaii signifies a progressive move towards a greener future in aviation. It serves as a model for other states and countries aiming to revolutionize their energy industries while addressing key environmental concerns. Through collaborative efforts and innovative practices, this initiative exemplifies how Hawai'i can lead the way in sustainable aviation solutions that benefit both the economy and the environment.