Innovation and forward-thinking technologies are crucial in the global effort to combat climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The aviation industry, while vital for global connectivity, contributes a significant 2.8% to worldwide CO2 emissions. To address this, the sector is committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050, and a key strategy in this ambitious goal is the adoption of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF). Austrian Airlines, in collaboration with its partner OMV, is taking a significant step in this direction by focusing on SAF produced at OMV’s Schwechat refinery, a major European refining complex located in Austria. This partnership highlights the commitment of both entities to sustainability and strengthens Austria’s position as a hub for innovative solutions.
In late 2021, Austrian Airlines and OMV formalized their commitment with a supply contract, and by March 2022, the first delivery of SAF was made to Vienna International Airport. This marked the beginning of Austrian Airlines fueling its aircraft with SAF, a move that significantly contributes to its sustainability objectives. OMV produces this sustainable fuel from regional biogenic raw materials at its Schwechat refinery, emphasizing a regional approach to sustainable solutions.
Elena Skvortsova, Executive Officer for Marketing & Trading at OMV, stated, “OMV is dedicated to achieving ambitious sustainability goals through various measures, with sustainable aviation fuel being central to our transformation. We are significantly scaling up our SAF production, aiming to increase sales from approximately 2,000 tons this year to over 700,000 metric tons annually by 2030. This initiative directly addresses greenhouse gas reduction. The delivery of SAF to Austrian Airlines, our long-term partner, represents a crucial first step. This collaboration underscores the strength of two Austrian champions, OMV and Austrian Airlines, reinforcing Austria as a center for innovation.”
Michael Trestl, Chief Commercial Officer of Austrian Airlines, emphasized the necessity of sustainable aviation fuels for the future of air travel, saying, “Aviation is essential for global connectivity, linking people and economies worldwide. Sustainable aviation fuels are a vital instrument in achieving carbon-neutral transportation and maintaining this connectivity responsibly. Austrian Airlines is proud to be the first Austrian carrier to utilize SAF, bringing us closer to realizing our climate goals.”
Martijn van Koten, OMV Executive Board Member for Refining, pointed out the efficiency and innovation inherent in this SAF production: “Sustainable aviation fuels are a core technology for reducing CO2 emissions in air travel, showcasing the remarkable innovation potential within the industry. Producing SAF at our Schwechat Refinery is highly efficient, leveraging regionally sourced sustainable raw materials and utilizing existing infrastructure for production, storage, and airport fueling at Vienna International Airport.”
Francesco Sciortino, Austrian Airlines Chief Operational Officer, highlighted the regional benefits of this partnership: “The supply chain for our SAF is distinctly Austrian. Our cooperation with OMV demonstrates the potential for regional innovation and showcases Austrian visionary capabilities!”
OMV’s sustainable aviation fuel is produced through the co-processing of sustainable and regionally sourced raw materials, specifically used cooking oil. This SAF achieves a greenhouse gas emission reduction of over 80% across its lifecycle compared to conventional jet fuel, representing a substantial environmental benefit.
Background Information on Partners
OMV Aktiengesellschaft: A major industrial player in Austria, OMV reported Group sales revenues of EUR 36 billion in 2021 and employs approximately 22,400 people. OMV operates across Chemicals & Materials (through Borealis), Refining & Marketing, Gas & Power Eastern Europe, and Exploration & Production. The company is committed to transitioning to a low-carbon business model, aiming for net-zero emissions across all scopes by 2050, and becoming a leader in sustainable fuels, chemicals, and materials, as well as circular economy practices.
Austrian Airlines: As Austria’s flagship carrier, Austrian Airlines boasts a global network of over 100 destinations, connecting Austria to the world via its hub at Vienna Airport. Austrian Airlines is committed to high service quality and environmental responsibility. The airline aims to halve its CO2 emissions by 2030 and achieve carbon-neutral flying by 2050. Austrian Airlines is part of the Lufthansa Group, the largest airline group in Europe, and a member of the Star Alliance, a leading global airline network.
This partnership between Austrian Airlines and OMV underscores a significant commitment to sustainable practices within the aviation industry and highlights the crucial role of collaboration in achieving ambitious environmental goals. By focusing on regional production and leveraging innovative fuel solutions, these Austrian partners are setting a benchmark for sustainable aviation and reinforcing Austria’s position as a leader in green innovation.
