Unimot Aviation has made aviation history in Poland by completing the country’s first physical delivery of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) to a commercial airport. The milestone event took place at Katowice International Airport in Pyrzowice, marking a significant step toward greener air travel in Central Europe.
The delivery and use of SAF on April 23, 2025, culminated in the refueling of an Airbus A320, which then departed for Marsa Alam in Egypt. This flight became the first scheduled aircraft in Poland to be powered by SAF fuel—an achievement that reflects both regulatory readiness and a growing commitment to sustainability in the aviation sector.
Produced from renewable sources like vegetable oils, animal fats, and agricultural waste, SAF is a cleaner alternative to conventional jet fuel. According to industry estimates, its use could contribute up to 65% of the emission reductions needed for aviation to achieve net-zero by 2050.
Unimot Aviation, part of the Unimot Group, is positioning itself at the forefront of this transition. The company’s latest achievement showcases its operational readiness to support airlines and airports in meeting upcoming European Union regulations.
Starting January 1, 2025, EU Regulation 2023/2405 mandates that all airports in the bloc handling more than 800,000 passengers or 100,000 tonnes of cargo annually must ensure that SAF comprises at least 2% of the total aviation fuel used. In Poland, this regulation will apply to eight key airports.
By executing this delivery ahead of the regulatory deadline, Unimot Aviation demonstrates both technical capability and environmental leadership. The SAF used in the Katowice operation not only met the new legal standards but also proved compatible with standard aircraft systems—refueled in the same way as traditional fuel.
Poland’s aviation infrastructure includes 15 public airports and more than 60 aeroclub fields, making the country a critical player in regional air transport. Unimot’s early investment in SAF capabilities aligns with broader efforts across Europe to reduce aviation’s environmental footprint while maintaining operational excellence.
As more airlines and airports prepare to comply with the upcoming EU SAF mandate, successful implementations like this are expected to pave the way for further adoption. Unimot Aviation’s achievement at Katowice sets a benchmark, showing that cleaner skies are no longer a distant goal—but a present-day reality.
