LanzaJet, BioD Launch Feasibility Study for Sustainable Aviation Fuel Plant in Colombia
- 14-May-2025 8:30 PM
- Journalist: William Faulkner
LanzaJet and BioD have announced the launch of a feasibility study for the development of Colombia鈥檚 first Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) production plant, marking a key milestone in Latin America's transition to cleaner aviation fuels.
The project reflects a shared commitment to a greener future under the vision, 鈥淎 Gift from the Earth to the Sky.鈥 It aims to position Colombia as a leader in SAF production in the region and support the global push toward decarbonizing aviation.
Following more than three years of evaluating over 20 available technologies, BioD selected LanzaJet鈥檚 Alcohol-to-Jet (ATJ) technology for its proven ability to convert ethanol into SAF at scale. LanzaJet, based in the United States, is recognized internationally for its innovations in ethanol-to-SAF solutions.
The study will evaluate the technical, economic and operational viability of deploying LanzaJet鈥檚 ATJ technology in Colombia. It also seeks to determine how the project can be successfully implemented using locally sourced feedstocks, such as agroforestry residues and energy crops approved under the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA).
鈥淭his is not just theory鈥攊t鈥檚 about building the future starting today,鈥 said Carolina Betancourt, head of BioD鈥檚 bioenergy business unit and project leader. 鈥淥ur commitment is to produce SAF in Colombia, generating both environmental and economic benefits for local communities.鈥
The project aims to become a benchmark for SAF production across Latin America and is aligned with Colombia鈥檚 national roadmap for sustainable aviation fuels. It is part of a broader strategy to diversify the country鈥檚 energy sources and integrate SAF into the national energy matrix by 2029.
In addition to advancing energy transition goals, the initiative seeks to foster rural development and social inclusion by connecting agricultural regions with industrial transformation efforts.
鈥淭his feasibility study is an important milestone for Colombia and for the growth of SAF across Latin America,鈥 said Jimmy Samartzis, CEO of LanzaJet. 鈥淲e鈥檙e proud to bring our leading ATJ technology to this partnership with BioD and to support Colombia鈥檚 efforts to build a more sustainable energy future.鈥
Through this collaboration, LanzaJet and BioD reaffirm their shared dedication to decarbonizing aviation and leading the shift toward sustainable fuel alternatives. The project underscores both companies鈥 roles in building a resilient, low-carbon aviation sector in Latin America and beyond.
BioD, a Colombian company and national leader in sustainable biodiesel production, has been operating for more than 17 years. Rooted in the principles of innovation and sustainability, BioD is dedicated to creating renewable energy solutions that contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable future.
The company is actively involved in reducing carbon emissions from heavy-duty road transport and the maritime industry in Colombia. Expanding its impact, BioD is currently advancing a new initiative focused on producing Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), reinforcing its role in the broader decarbonization of the transportation sector.