Delta, Georgia leaders unite to accelerate sustainable aviation fuel growth

Delta Air Lines joined partners across Georgia to launch the Georgia Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Coalition, a new statewide effort established by the Metro Atlanta Chamber and founding members Delta, the Georgia Forestry Association and Georgia Farm Bureau. The coalition aims to advance SAF production and drive economic investment across Georgia. SAF is an alternative jet fuel made from renewable feedstocks that can significantly reduce lifecycle carbon emissions compared to conventional jet fuel.

During an event at the Delta Flight Museum, elected officials, industry leaders and coalition partners gathered to highlight Georgia's opportunity to become a leader in sustainable aviation fuel production. Speakers included Georgia House Speaker Jon Burns, Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper, Metro Atlanta Chamber President and CEO Katie Kirkpatrick and Delta President Peter Carter.

"Georgia is well positioned to become a national leader in SAF," said Peter Carter, President of Delta Air Lines. "The Georgia SAF Coalition unites organizations committed to advancing that opportunity. Together, we can power the growth of a SAF industry that strengthens Georgia’s economy, supports innovation and creates lasting benefits for communities across the state.”

The coalition builds on momentum created by this year's Keep Georgia Forested Act, legislation that encourages investment in forestry manufacturing and creates new opportunities to convert Georgia-grown agricultural and forestry feedstocks into products such as sustainable aviation fuel. 

Priorities include strengthening public-private partnerships, supporting research and commercialization, attracting investment, advancing policies that support industry growth and connecting Georgia's existing strengths to emerging opportunities. 

As home to Delta's global headquarters and the world's busiest airport, Georgia is already helping shape the future of aviation. Combined with the nation's largest forestry resource base, strong agricultural production, leading research institutions and a robust logistics network, the state is uniquely positioned to build a sustainable aviation fuel ecosystem that supports farmers, foresters and local communities while creating new economic opportunities across Georgia.

SAF is widely viewed as one of the most promising tools available today to reduce lifecycle carbon emissions from air travel, and Georgia has the feedstock resources, research capabilities and business leadership needed to help scale the industry.

Find more information about the GA SAF Coalition and  the full list of members.