Southwest Airlines has taken a significant step towards greener air travel by announcing a new sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) supply agreement with Valero Marketing and Supply Company. This deal, the largest of its kind in Illinois, will bring SAF to Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) and marks a milestone in the airline’s sustainability efforts.
The two-year contract ensures Southwest will purchase at least 3.6 million gallons of neat SAF, or approximately 12 million gallons once blended, starting in late 2024. The agreement also includes an option to increase purchases up to 25 million gallons of neat SAF (around 84 million gallons blended). This amount would represent up to 35% of Southwest’s fuel use at MDW based on its recent fuel consumption.
Governor JB Pritzker highlighted the importance of this initiative, saying, “Since day one, I’ve been committed to making Illinois a leader in sustainability and clean energy. I was proud to support a SAF tax credit last year, which has already boosted adoption rates in Illinois. This partnership between Southwest and Midway is a crucial step toward a cleaner energy future.”
The SAF supplied under this agreement will be produced from waste-based materials, such as used cooking oil, animal fats, and corn oil from distilleries. These feedstocks are expected to reduce lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions by 74% to 84% compared to traditional jet fuel. The SAF will also be certified through a CORSIA-approved Sustainability Certification Scheme, ensuring it meets all regulatory standards.
Diamond Green Diesel, a joint venture between Valero and Darling Ingredients Inc., will supply the SAF. The fuel will be blended with conventional jet fuel and transported through existing infrastructure, including the Explorer Pipeline and West Shore’s Chicagoland pipeline network.
U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth praised Southwest for this initiative, emphasizing the need to increase SAF supply to reduce the aviation industry’s carbon footprint. “This move supports domestic farmers and blenders while reducing emissions,” she said.
Chicago Department of Aviation Commissioner Jamie L. Rhee also expressed her support, noting the significance of this move for one of the world’s busiest airport systems. “Southwest’s commitment to sustainability will benefit travelers, our community, and the planet for years to come,” Rhee stated.
This agreement marks a major step toward more sustainable air travel and sets an example for the aviation industry in embracing greener fuel alternatives.
