FedEx launches first major U.S. SAF use at LAX

Neste to supply over three million gallons of SAF in a landmark cargo aviation deal.

FedEx has kicked off its first large-scale deployment of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) in the United States, in partnership with Neste.

The company will supply 8,800 metric tons (over three million gallons) of blended Neste MY Sustainable Aviation Fuel at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). This move marks the largest SAF purchase by a U.S. cargo airline at LAX to date, with the fuel covering approximately 20% of FedEx’s annual jet fuel consumption at the airport. 

Deliveries began this month and are set to continue for one year. The agreement includes a minimum blend of 30% neat SAF, helping FedEx advance its goal of achieving carbon-neutral operations by 2040.

“Procuring SAF is an important component of our aviation emissions reduction strategy,” said Karen Blanks Ellis, Chief Sustainability Officer at FedEx. “Our aviation network is our biggest opportunity to drive down emissions.”

SAF, derived from 100% renewable waste materials like used cooking oil and animal fat waste, can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80% over its life cycle compared to fossil jet fuel.

Carl Nyberg, Senior Vice President at Neste, praised FedEx for leading the charge: “FedEx is demonstrating how air cargo can leverage lower-emission solutions like SAF to reduce its environmental impact.”

Neste’s current global SAF production capacity stands at 1.5 million tons (around 515 million gallons) per year, positioning it as a key player in helping the aviation industry decarbonize.