
Singapore Airlines Group has taken a significant step towards enhancing its sustainability efforts by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Aether Fuels, a climate technology firm focused on sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).
This agreement, announced on February 7, 2025, outlines the SIA Group's intention to procure neat SAF from Aether for an initial period of five years, with an option to extend for an additional five years once Aether's production plants in the United States and Southeast Asia become operational.
The SAF produced by Aether will be derived from waste carbon feedstock using its proprietary Aether Aurora™ technology, which is designed to lower production costs, increase efficiency, and yield higher amounts of SAF compared to traditional methods. This innovative approach aligns with Singapore Airlines' long-term decarbonization goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
Lee Wen Fen, Chief Sustainability Officer of Singapore Airlines, emphasized that this partnership is a crucial step in accelerating the adoption of SAF in their flight operations, thereby laying the groundwork for more sustainable air travel.
Aether Fuels, which was established in 2022 and incubated by Xora, a deep tech venture firm backed by Temasek, is set to develop commercial-scale production projects that will produce Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA)-certified SAF.
These projects are expected to achieve a minimum greenhouse gas reduction of 75%, significantly contributing to the aviation industry's sustainability initiatives. Conor Madigan, CEO of Aether Fuels, expressed pride in collaborating with Singapore Airlines, noting that the partnership will enhance their understanding of customer priorities and the SAF market, particularly in Southeast Asia.
This collaboration not only reflects Singapore Airlines' commitment to sustainability but also highlights the supportive environment in Singapore for deep tech innovation, which empowers companies like Aether to tackle global challenges through transformative solutions.
The neat SAF produced will be blended with conventional jet fuel before being supplied to selected airports served by Singapore Airlines and its low-cost subsidiary, Scoot, marking a pivotal move towards greener aviation practices.