The FAA is accepting applications for close to $300 million in funding for sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) infrastructure and low-emission aviation technology projects.
Some $245 million is available for SAF Fueling Aviation’s Sustainable Transition (FAST)-SAF grants, which will be allocated for projects that focus on producing, transporting, and blending sustainable aviation fuel. The grants are intended to support the development of regional SAF supply chains and increased SAF use.
Meanwhile, $47 million in FAST-Tech funds are available for aviation technology projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve aircraft fuel efficiency, and increase SAF usage. The FAA noted these grants are available to a range of entities from airports, air carriers, universities, and aviation and aerospace companies to state and local governments and nonprofit organizations.
Plans call for the first round of grants to be awarded in mid-2024. Funded through the Inflation Reduction Act, the grant availability is designed to support projects that work toward the goal of net-zero aviation emissions by 2050, the agency stated.
“We have a need for speed in this race,” said Laurence Wildgoose, the FAA assistant administrator for policy, international affairs, and environment. He added that with the White House support, “We have more resources than ever before to accelerate this critical work.”