New SAF Report Positions Massachusetts and Massport at the Forefront of Clean Aviation and Climate Innovation

(IN SHORT) The Massachusetts SAF Working Group, in collaboration with Massport, has released a set of strategic recommendations aimed at establishing the Commonwealth as a national leader in sustainable aviation fuel. Presented at the Regional SAF Workshop, the report includes five key actions—ranging from launching a regional SAF planning study to advancing tax incentives and forming a multistate alliance. With aircraft emissions a major contributor to Boston Logan’s carbon footprint, SAF is seen as essential to Massachusetts’ Net Zero goals. The initiative blends climate innovation, economic growth, and interagency collaboration, further supported by Massport’s $500M Net Zero investment strategy.

(PRESS RELEASE) BOSTON, MA, 2025-Jun-9 — /Travel PR News/ — The Massachusetts Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Working Group, a cross-agency collaboration with Massport, has released a comprehensive report presenting five strategic recommendations to Governor Maura Healey that aim to position the Commonwealth as a national leader in sustainable aviation fuel production, supply, and adoption. This initiative is designed to drive decarbonization in aviation while unlocking new economic opportunities across the clean energy and transportation sectors.

Announced during the Regional SAF Workshop, co-hosted by Massport and attended by over 130 stakeholders and industry leaders, the report highlights both immediate and long-term actions that leverage Massachusetts’ climate innovation ecosystem and workforce talent. With aircraft accounting for nearly 80% of greenhouse gas emissions at Boston Logan International Airport, SAF stands as a crucial element in the state’s strategy to reduce aviation-related emissions.

The SAF Working Group includes representatives from the Executive Offices of Economic Development, Energy and Environmental Affairs, Administration and Finance, Office of Climate Innovation and Resilience, MassCEC, MassDOT Aeronautics Division, and Massport. Their unified efforts underscore the Commonwealth’s whole-of-government approach to advancing climate, economic, and transportation goals.

“These recommendations highlight the need to explore viable, long-term strategies that support cleaner air travel,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Rebecca Tepper. “Reducing pollution from aviation is essential to achieving a healthier environment.”

“This report reflects our dedication to pushing Massachusetts forward as a climatech leader,” added Climate Chief Melissa Hoffer. “It’s about accelerating innovation while promoting cleaner air and economic resilience.”

The report outlines the following five recommendations:

Launch a Regional SAF Planning Study – A comprehensive analysis of SAF logistics, regional feedstock opportunities, and production capacity, targeted for completion by Fall 2025.

Establish a Massachusetts/New England SAF Hub – A collaborative hub of airlines, academia, employers, and government stakeholders to foster coordination and action, with immediate implementation.

Leverage State and Federal Programs – Utilize existing climate, technology, and economic development programs while securing federal funding and policy alignment to support SAF innovation.

Advance SAF Tax Credit Legislation – Develop and propose tax incentives to support infrastructure and technology adoption for SAF production and blending.

Form a Regional SAF Alliance – Create a coalition among New England states and New York to harmonize policy, develop the supply chain, and scale the SAF market over the medium to long term.

“Massachusetts has the assets, talent, and innovation ecosystem to lead the way,” said MassCEC CEO Dr. Emily Reichert. “This roadmap can unlock clean energy opportunities while significantly reducing aviation emissions.”

“We’re proud to continue our tradition of innovation,” added Interim Secretary of Economic Development Ashley Stolba. “Massachusetts is shaping the future of cleaner aviation, not just for our state but for the entire country.”

Massport CEO Rich Davey emphasized the economic and environmental potential:

“As we position Massachusetts and New England as a hub for SAF innovation, we’re not only enabling aviation decarbonization but also fostering workforce development and climate leadership.”

Massport’s commitment to Net Zero, announced in 2022, includes over $500 million in sustainability investments through 2030. Recent milestones include a $60 million shore power project at Flynn Cruiseport Boston and the launch of one of the largest solar fields in the state near Worcester Regional Airport.

“This report offers thoughtful, actionable strategies,” said Transportation Secretary Monica Tibbits-Nutt. “Our collaborative approach will turn these recommendations into real progress.”

“The aviation industry thrives on innovation,” said MassDOT Aeronautics Acting Administrator Denise Garcia. “These initiatives reflect our commitment to a greener future in aviation.”

Media contact:
MediaRelations@massport.com

SOURCE: MASSPORT