This is the subject of a new BCG study entitled Sustainable Aviation Fuels Need A Fast Takeoff, carried out with more than 500 professionals, from 207 companies in the air sector. Among the key messages:
• A majority of players still in the observation phase: due to high costs, around two thirds of the companies questioned adopt a prudent approach, rather than positioning themselves as a market leader, thus slowing down the development of the sector and the search for economies of scale.
• A difference between ambition and preparation: 80 % of companies say they are confident in their ability to achieve the 2030 SAF objectives, but only 14 % feel sufficiently prepared.
• Two -speed investments: almost half of commercial aviation players invest more than 4 % of their income in SAF.
Some sectors are more advanced than others such as SAF project developers (financiers, energy companies …) or manufacturers of aircraft and engines. Conversely, airlines and airports remain withdrawn with investments between 1 % to 3 %, favoring the renewal of their fleet to SAF projects, considered more risky.
Morocco: a master asset for new green aviation
The kingdom benefits from rare assets: an unrivaled potential in renewable energies, an assertive ambition around green hydrogen, leading international airport infrastructure, and an ideal geographical position at the gates of Europe. So many elements that can allow Morocco not only to meet its own SAF needs, but also to become one of the major regional suppliers. As Emile Detry explains, Managing Director & Partner at the Boston Consulting Group Casablanca: “Morocco has all the ingredients to become a key player in clean aviation. Competitive energy, strategic proximity to Europe, an booming industrial fabric, and above all an ability to anticipate major industrial revolutions. Building on the SAF Today is investing in the country’s energy sovereignty, in its green growth, and in the creation of qualified jobs for tomorrow. »»
Three priorities to accelerate
To transform this potential into reality, BCG identifies three major levers: 1. Federate efforts: building a coalition of public and private actors, airlines, energy companies, institutions, around an ambitious roadmap, and adopt mandates similar to those of the European Union to create a real SAF market. 2. Launch concrete pilot projects: develop production units backed by major logistics and air hubs in the country, with solid international industrial partnerships. 3. Create an attractive investment environment: set up clear incentives (carbon pricing, guaranteed purchase contracts, easy access to climate funding) to attract private and public capital.
Being a pioneer: a decisive advantage
Today, the production of SAF, especially via E-Fuels (Green Hydrogen + Carbon captured), remains expensive. But with European mandates that force companies to integrate SAF in their operations, a historic window opens. The first to position themselves will be able to lower their costs faster, capture strategic market share, and establish lasting leadership.
