LanzaJet, a global leader in Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) technology and production, has announced Teesside’s Wilton International as the site for its new production facility, Project Speedbird. This groundbreaking development represents a significant step forward in the global push toward greener aviation.

The company has joined forces with Sembcorp Utilities (UK) Limited, a subsidiary of Sembcorp Industries Ltd, to establish an ethanol-to-SAF production plant at the strategically located Wilton International site. In collaboration with British Airways, Project Speedbird aims to produce more than 90,000 tonnes (30 million gallons) of SAF and renewable diesel annually, bolstering the UK’s efforts to decarbonize its aviation industry.

Supported by grant funding from the UK government’s Advanced Fuels Fund, Project Speedbird is set to deliver substantial regional benefits. The facility is expected to create around 30 skilled, long-term jobs in the area while producing fuel that could slash net carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 230,000 tonnes annually. This reduction equates to the carbon footprint of 26,000 domestic flights operated by British Airways within the UK.

As the world pivots toward cleaner energy solutions, LanzaJet’s Project Speedbird stands as a testament to innovation, collaboration, and the shared commitment to a more sustainable future for aviation.

“Wilton International was selected for its strategic location and advanced infrastructure, essential for SAF production. This selection underscores Teesside’s pivotal role in the UK’s energy transition and industrial decarbonisation efforts. By leveraging Wilton International’s capabilities, the project enhances the region’s status as a leader in alternative energy initiatives, contributing significantly to the UK’s clean energy objectives,” said Jimmy Samartzis, CEO of LanzaJet. 

“Through our collaboration with British Airways, we are building a local supply chain for SAF – a critical solution for reducing lifecycle net carbon emissions in aviation – while supporting the UK’s ambition to lead the energy transition. Project Speedbird demonstrates the potential of aligning technology, investment, and partnerships to address the aviation industry’s carbon emissions.”

The facility will leverage LanzaJet’s proprietary alcohol-to-jet technology, already successfully implemented at its Freedom Pines Fuels facility in Georgia, USA—the world’s first commercial ethanol-to-SAF production plant. Project Speedbird will produce sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) using ethanol sourced from environmentally responsible suppliers. Additionally, the initiative will foster vital partnerships within the region, driving economic growth and strengthening the local economy.

Carrie Harris, Director of Sustainability at British Airways, said: ​“We are delighted that LanzaJet has selected Wilton International in Teesside as the site for Project Speedbird. This milestone paves the way for the next stage of this innovative project, which is an important step towards scaling up sustainable aviation fuel production in the UK. SAF will be crucial in helping us reach our net zero goals by 2050, and this development marks significant progress towards producing UK SAF, whilst also supporting local communities and creating green jobs.”

“We are pleased to welcome LanzaJet to our Wilton International site in Teesside. By providing ready-to-go infrastructure, energy and utilities services, we support their efforts in developing sustainable and low-carbon solutions. This collaboration aligns with our commitment to accelerating the UK’s energy transition and industrial decarbonisation. We look forward to partnering with LanzaJet as they play a pivotal role in transforming the aviation sector towards net zero,” said Mike Patrick, Chief Executive Officer of Sembcorp Energy UK.

The post British Airways and LanzaJet Partner on Project Speedbird in Teesside, Launching a Cutting-Edge Facility to Lead the UK’s Transition to Sustainable Aviation and Reduce Carbon Emissions at Scale appeared first on Travel And Tour World.