The project aims to transform the Pittsburgh region’s infrastructure and economy by enabling airlines to access cost-effective SAF to meet decarbonization goals. The facility is expected to produce over 100 million gallons of SAF annually through phased development, serving commercial and cargo needs at PIT and surrounding areas. With a carbon intensity at least 65% lower than conventional jet fuel, the plant will create hundreds of full-time jobs upon completion.
International aviation leaders have endorsed the initiative. Mike Caston, Director of Americas Partnerships and Policy at Boeing, stated: “In pursuit of responsible and resilient growth in aerospace, Boeing supports the development of advanced, synthetic fuels here in the U.S. to power air travel into the future.”
Project partners highlighted the global significance of the collaboration. Hari Ravindran, KBR’s Global SVP for Technology, said: “KBR is proud to support the Pittsburgh International Airport team and enable it to be one of the first airports globally to provide SAF to its customers by producing it onsite at the airport. PureSAF (alcohol-to-jet) Technology, is designed to allow the facility to deliver 100% drop-in fuel made from renewable feedstocks while meeting global specifications for sustainable jet fuel.”
Christina Cassotis, CEO of Pittsburgh International Airport, emphasized PIT’s commitment to innovation, noting: “Pittsburgh International Airport has long been committed to resiliency and driving innovation in the aviation and energy industries. This unique partnership with Avina and KBR will result in on-site SAF production and fills a growing need for our airline partners and the industry overall. With abundant natural resources, robust energy infrastructure, and available fuel storage, PIT is uniquely positioned to meet these goals.”
Vishal Shah, Founder and CEO of Avina, added: “Avina is excited to support the vision of Pittsburgh International Airport and bring a SAF production facility to their doorstep. We are committed to bringing hundreds of jobs to the community and expanding the energy production ecosystem. With Pittsburgh’s commercial and cargo demand along with the network to connect to the other regional hubs, we aim to set the platform for such developments nationally and globally.”
The facility leverages Pittsburgh’s strategic advantages, including its energy infrastructure and regional connectivity, to meet rising SAF demand. This partnership sets a model for sustainable aviation fuel production, supporting both local economic growth and global environmental goals.
