A new £63 million investment from the UK government is set to supercharge the country’s sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) sector. Backing 17 British projects, this funding is more than a climate commitment - it’s a major step forward for green jobs, innovation, and a cleaner aviation future.
Why it’s good for the planet
SAF can cut lifecycle emissions by up to 70% compared to traditional jet fuel. By investing in home-grown production, this initiative helps reduce the UK's reliance on fossil fuels and imported energy. It also encourages long-term innovation in alternative fuels, such as hydrogen, through research hubs like the University of Sheffield’s Energy Innovation Centre.
Cleaner fuels mean cleaner skies and more sustainable air travel, essential to hitting the UK’s 2050 net zero aviation targets.
Creating green jobs across the UK
The SAF rollout is expected to support around 1,400 skilled jobs, from engineers and compliance officers to sustainability managers and project leaders. As more facilities come online, this number will only grow - especially in regions where green infrastructure and airport upgrades intersect.
The economic potential is huge: by 2050, low-carbon fuel production could contribute £5 billion to the UK economy, driving regional growth and strengthening the UK’s role in climate tech.
How Allen & York Can Help
As a specialist recruiter in sustainability, ESG and environmental roles, Allen & York is proud to support this transition. We’ve already worked with airports across the UK to place top talent in sustainability, compliance, and HSE roles.
Here’s how we can help:
Specialist knowledge: We understand the regulatory environmental, and operational requirements unique to SAF adoption and airport decarbonisation.
Access to expert talent: Our network includes compliance managers, environmental scientists, ESG consultants and project leads with SAF-relevant experience.
End-to-end recruitment: From role scoping to onboarding, we support the full process ensuring the right people are in place to deliver your green goals quickly and effectively.
Whether you're launching a new SAF project or scaling your sustainability team, we can help you build the workforce that powers cleaner aviation.
Get in touch with our Airport & Sustainability Recruitment team to find out how we can help deliver your sustainability and compliance objectives.