Sustainable Aviation
Pratt Whitney GTF Engines Achieve Record Orders in Sustainable Aviation
Pratt & Whitney’s GTF engines surpass 12,000 global orders with 20% fuel efficiency gains, driving airline sustainability and operational cost reductions.
As the aviation industry faces mounting pressure to reduce emissions and enhance operational efficiency, engine manufacturers are stepping up with innovative solutions. Among the leaders in this space is Pratt & Whitney, a business unit of RTX Corporation, which has made significant strides with its Geared Turbofan (GTF) engine program. With nearly 1,100 new orders and commitments in just the first half of 2025, the GTF engine continues to gain traction among global airlines seeking fuel efficiency, lower maintenance costs, and reduced environmental impact.
The GTF engine represents a transformative shift in single-aisle aircraft propulsion. Its revolutionary geared architecture allows different components of the engine to operate at optimal speeds, enhancing performance and fuel economy. As of June 2025, total GTF engine orders and commitments have surpassed 12,000 units, a clear signal of industry confidence in the technology. This article explores the GTF engine’s growth, technological advancements, and its broader implications for the future of aviation.
Pratt & Whitney’s GTF engine program has seen a remarkable uptick in demand in 2025. According to RTX, nearly 1,100 orders and commitments have been secured since the beginning of the year. Airlines such as Aegean Airlines, Air Niugini, ANA, Frontier Airlines, LOT Polish Airlines, and Wizz Air have all placed orders, joined by two undisclosed customers. This surge brings the total number of GTF engines ordered or committed to over 12,000 units worldwide.
Such demand is not only a testament to the engine’s performance but also reflects the aviation industry’s strategic pivot toward more sustainable technologies. The GTF’s ability to deliver up to 20% lower fuel consumption compared to previous generation engines translates directly into cost savings and reduced carbon emissions, two priorities for modern carriers.
With approximately 2,400 GTF-powered aircraft already delivered to over 85 customers globally, the engine’s presence in commercial fleets continues to expand. These numbers underscore a growing consensus among airlines that the GTF engine is a reliable and future-ready solution for narrow-body aircraft.
“These orders demonstrate confidence in Pratt & Whitney and the value the GTF delivers to customers with its industry-leading fuel efficiency.” — Rick Deurloo, President of Commercial Engines at Pratt & Whitney
At the core of the GTF engine’s appeal is its unique geared architecture. This design allows the fan to spin slower and the low-pressure turbine to spin faster, optimizing efficiency and reducing noise. The result is a 75% smaller noise footprint and up to 20% lower fuel burn compared to traditional engines.
Pratt & Whitney has continued to evolve the GTF platform with new innovations. The GTF Advantage variant, which received FAA type certification earlier in 2025, is scheduled to enter service in 2026. This upgraded engine offers improved range capability, enhanced durability, and even better fuel efficiency, making it a compelling option for airlines planning fleet renewals or expansions.
Another notable upgrade is the GTF Hot Section Plus (HS+) option. This enhancement nearly doubles time on wing by increasing engine durability. Extended maintenance intervals reduce aircraft downtime and maintenance costs, providing further value to operators. The aviation sector is under increasing scrutiny for its environmental footprint. With international regulations tightening and public demand for greener travel growing, airlines are under pressure to adopt cleaner technologies. The GTF engine directly supports these goals by reducing both fuel consumption and noise pollution.
Single-aisle aircraft, which form the backbone of global commercial aviation, particularly for low-cost and regional carriers, benefit significantly from the GTF’s efficiencies. These aircraft typically operate on high-frequency routes, where fuel savings and noise reduction can have a cumulative impact on both costs and community relations.
Moreover, the GTF engine’s architecture offers a scalable foundation for future propulsion technologies. As the industry explores hybrid-electric and hydrogen-powered solutions, having an adaptable core engine design positions Pratt & Whitney to integrate next-generation innovations more seamlessly.
RTX Corporation, the parent company of Pratt & Whitney, stands as the world’s largest aerospace and defense company, with 2024 sales exceeding $80 billion and a global workforce of over 185,000 employees. This scale enables RTX to invest heavily in research, development, and global support infrastructure.
Through its integrated businesses, Pratt & Whitney, Collins Aerospace, and Raytheon, RTX is uniquely positioned to drive innovation across both commercial and defense aviation sectors. The GTF engine program benefits from this synergy, drawing on cross-disciplinary expertise in materials science, digital engineering, and systems integration.
Global partnerships further reinforce RTX’s strategic positioning. Recent agreements, such as the memorandum of understanding with the Singapore Economic Development Board, outline long-term growth roadmaps and support the company’s vision for sustainable aviation leadership.
The diversity of airlines ordering the GTF engine, from full-service carriers like ANA to budget operators like Wizz Air, illustrates its broad market appeal. These customers are betting on the engine’s long-term performance, efficiency, and reliability to support their business models in an increasingly competitive environment.
Fleet planning decisions are made with decades-long horizons, and the GTF engine’s track record of over 250 million projected flight hours by the mid-2030s offers a compelling case for long-term value. With maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) support embedded into the RTX global network, customers can also count on consistent service and parts availability. As sustainability becomes a core pillar of airline branding and investor relations, the GTF engine’s environmental credentials provide additional strategic leverage. Operators can market their use of fuel-efficient technology as part of broader ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) commitments.
Despite its many advantages, the GTF engine program has not been without challenges. Earlier iterations faced durability concerns, which Pratt & Whitney has addressed through continuous upgrades like the HS+ option. Ensuring consistent performance across diverse operating environments remains a key focus for the company.
Supply chain resilience is another area of attention. As global aerospace manufacturing ramps up post-pandemic, ensuring timely delivery of engines and parts is critical. RTX’s scale and diversified supplier base help mitigate these risks, but ongoing vigilance is necessary.
Looking ahead, the integration of digital monitoring tools and predictive maintenance will further enhance engine performance and reliability. These technologies will be central to managing large fleets of GTF-powered aircraft efficiently and cost-effectively.
The strong market response to Pratt & Whitney’s GTF engine in 2025 underscores a broader shift in aviation toward sustainability, efficiency, and innovation. With over 12,000 orders and commitments and a growing presence in global airline fleets, the GTF engine is fast becoming a cornerstone of modern commercial aviation.
As the GTF Advantage enters service and new durability enhancements like the HS+ option are adopted, Pratt & Whitney is poised to solidify its leadership in the single-aisle engine market. Backed by RTX’s global reach and technological ecosystem, the GTF engine program is well-positioned to meet the evolving needs of airlines and regulators alike.
What is the GTF engine? How many GTF engines have been ordered? What are the environmental benefits of the GTF engine? RTX News Center, Airbus – Aegean Airlines, Airbus – Air Niugini, Airbus – LOT Polish Airlines, RTX – GTF Hot Section Plus
Pratt & Whitney’s GTF™ Engines: Driving the Future of Sustainable Aviation
Unpacking the Surge in GTF Engine Orders
Record-Breaking Demand in 2025
Key Technological Advancements
Market and Environmental Impact
Strategic Positioning and Industry Implications
RTX’s Role in Aviation Innovation
Customer Confidence and Long-Term Value
Challenges and the Path Forward
Conclusion
FAQ
The GTF (Geared Turbofan) engine is an advanced aircraft engine developed by Pratt & Whitney that uses a geared architecture to optimize performance, reduce fuel consumption, and lower noise.
As of mid-2025, more than 12,000 orders and commitments have been made by over 90 customers worldwide.
The engine offers up to 20% fuel savings and a 75% reduction in noise compared to previous-generation engines, supporting greener aviation initiatives.
Sources
Photo Credit: RTX
Sustainable Aviation
Asia-Pacific Aviation Growth and Sustainable Aviation Fuel Initiatives 2026
Asia-Pacific aviation growth faces decarbonization challenges with new SAF mandates and Airbus’s just transition strategy at Singapore Airshow 2026.
This article is based on an official press release from Airbus and additional industry reporting regarding the Singapore Airshow 2026.
As the aviation industry gathers for the Singapore Airshow 2026, the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region stands as the focal point of global aerospace growth. According to recent industry forecasts, APAC is projected to account for over 50% of global aviation growth between 2025 and 2026. However, this rapid expansion presents a critical challenge: reconciling a forecast 7.3% increase in passenger traffic with urgent decarbonization goals.
In a press release issued on February 2, 2026, Airbus outlined a strategy focused on a “just transition.” The European manufacturer argues that the adoption of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) in Asia-Pacific offers more than just environmental compliance; it presents a pathway for regional socioeconomic development and energy sovereignty.
While the primary driver for SAF adoption globally has been carbon reduction, Airbus emphasizes that for the APAC region, the benefits are deeply tied to local economic resilience. The region possesses abundant feedstock potential, including agricultural residues, used cooking oil, and palm oil waste.
According to the Airbus announcement, utilizing agricultural waste for fuel production addresses multiple local issues simultaneously. In many parts of Asia, the burning of agricultural fields contributes significantly to seasonal air pollution. By converting this biomass into SAF, the region can reduce local smog while creating new revenue streams for rural communities.
Airbus describes this approach as a “just transition,” ensuring that the shift to green energy supports developing economies rather than hindering them. The manufacturer notes that developing local production capabilities also boosts “regional energy sovereignty,” reducing the reliance on imported fossil fuels.
“Given the broad socioeconomic diversity… Asia-Pacific is a prime place to demonstrate the possibilities for a just transition. Leveraging co-benefits could open opportunities to build community resilience.”
, Airbus Press Release, February 2, 2026
Beyond manufacturer initiatives, government policy in the region is hardening. Data released in conjunction with the Singapore Airshow highlights a wave of new mandates and targets aimed at accelerating SAF uptake. Most notably, Singapore has confirmed the introduction of a SAF levy for all flights departing from Changi Airport starting October 1, 2026. This levy is designed to fund a national 1% SAF target by the end of the year, with plans to scale to 3-5% by 2030.
Other regional developments include:
The push for decarbonization is also visible on the tarmac. During the Singapore Airshow, an Airbus A350-1000 is performing flying displays powered by a 35% SAF blend. The fuel, supplied by Shell Aviation, was produced via the HEFA-SPK pathway using used cooking oil and tallow.
In a significant move for propulsion technology, Airbus, CFM International, and the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on February 2. This agreement establishes Singapore as the world’s first airport testbed for the “RISE” (Revolutionary Innovation for Sustainable Engines) program. The initiative aims to test “Open Fan” engine architecture, which targets a 20% improvement in fuel efficiency.
Additionally, Airbus and Cathay Group have reiterated their commitment to a US$70 million joint investment, originally announced in late 2025, to accelerate SAF production projects with commercial viability in the region.
While the regulatory and technological momentum is palpable, a stark reality remains. Industry data indicates that global SAF output reached only 1.9 million tonnes in 2025, representing a mere 0.6% of total jet fuel demand. With APAC passenger traffic expected to grow by 7.3% in 2026, the gap between demand for travel and the supply of green fuel is widening.
The “green premium”, where SAF costs 2x to 4x more than conventional jet fuel, remains the primary hurdle. While the “just transition” narrative provided by Airbus offers a compelling long-term vision for feedstock utilization, the immediate success of these initiatives will depend heavily on whether the new levies and investments can bridge the price gap quickly enough to meet the 2027-2030 mandates.
What is the “Just Transition” in aviation? When does the Singapore SAF levy begin? What is the current global supply of SAF? Sources:
Asia-Pacific Aviation at a Crossroads: Balancing Growth with a “Just Transition”
The Socioeconomic Case for SAF
Turning Waste into Wealth
Regulatory Momentum and National Mandates
Technological Milestones at Singapore Airshow 2026
New Partnerships
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
In this context, it refers to decarbonizing aviation in a way that provides economic benefits to developing nations, such as creating jobs in rural areas by using agricultural waste for fuel production.
The levy applies to all flights departing Singapore starting October 1, 2026.
As of 2025, SAF production accounted for approximately 0.6% of total global jet fuel usage.
Airbus,
IATA,
Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore
Photo Credit: Airbus
Sustainable Aviation
FedEx Expands Sustainable Aviation Fuel Program to DFW and JFK Airports
FedEx expands sustainable aviation fuel use to Dallas-Fort Worth and JFK airports, supporting its carbon-neutral goals with 5 million gallons secured for 2025.
This article is based on an official press release from FedEx.
FedEx has officially expanded its SAF program to include Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) and John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK). The logistics giant announced the move on January 29, 2026, marking a significant step in its “Priority Earth” sustainability roadmap. With these additions, FedEx now utilizes SAF at five airports across the United States.
According to the company’s announcement, the expansion is supported by World Fuel Services (WFS), which manages the supply chain and delivery of the fuel. The initiative positions FedEx as the first airline, cargo or passenger, to purchase SAF for regular commercial operations at DFW, a major global logistics hub.
The agreement covers the purchase of approximately 2 million gallons of “neat” (unblended) SAF for these two locations. When combined with agreements for other hubs, FedEx has secured a total of 5 million gallons of neat SAF for delivery throughout 2025.
While the purchasing agreements are calculated in gallons of “neat” SAF, the fuel actually delivered to aircraft is a blend. Safety regulations currently prohibit the use of 100% SAF in commercial aircraft engines. Consequently, the fuel supplied to FedEx at DFW and JFK is a mixture containing a minimum of 30% neat SAF blended with conventional Jet A fuel.
World Fuel Services facilitates this supply, typically sourcing the renewable component from Valero’s Diamond Green Diesel (DGD) joint venture. The SAF is produced via the HEFA (Hydroprocessed Esters and Fatty Acids) pathway, utilizing waste-based feedstocks such as used cooking oil, animal tallow, and distiller’s corn oil. This production method allows for a lifecycle greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction of up to 80% compared to standard petroleum-based jet fuel.
In a statement regarding the logistical achievement, Bradley Hurwitz, Senior Vice President of Supply & Trading at World Fuel Services, noted:
“FedEx’s purchase at DFW and JFK demonstrates how our aviation fuel distribution platform enables carriers to access lower-carbon fuel options with a robust supply chain designed for flexibility and scale.”
This expansion is part of FedEx’s broader strategy to achieve carbon-neutral global operations by 2040. The company has set an interim target to source 30% of its total jet fuel from alternative fuels by 2030. The addition of DFW and JFK complements existing SAF programs at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), Chicago O’Hare (ORD), and Miami International Airport (MIA). Karen Blanks Ellis, Chief Sustainability Officer at FedEx, emphasized the progress made over the last year:
“Expanding SAF use by FedEx to include our operations at DFW and JFK caps off a successful year of SAF deployments coast-to-coast. While we know there remains work ahead to procure more SAF… we are proud of our steps forward.”
The introduction of SAF at Dallas-Fort Worth is particularly notable. While pilot programs have existed at DFW since 2021, they were largely limited to business aviation. FedEx’s commitment marks the first regular commercial adoption at the airport, signaling a shift from experimental to operational use in the cargo sector.
However, the industry faces significant headwinds. SAF currently trades at a premium of two to five times the price of conventional jet fuel. Furthermore, global production remains less than 1% of total jet fuel demand. While the “book and claim” system and government incentives like the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act help bridge the cost gap, the physical availability of SAF remains the primary bottleneck for large-scale adoption.
By securing 5 million gallons of neat SAF for 2025, FedEx is signaling consistent demand to producers, which is essential for stimulating the investment required to increase production capacity.
Airport officials have welcomed the move as a validation of existing infrastructure capabilities. Because the blended fuel is a “drop-in” solution, it requires no modifications to airport storage tanks or hydration systems.
Robert Horton, Vice President of Environmental Affairs at DFW Airport, stated:
“FedEx’s SAF purchase reflects how airlines, airports, and fuel providers work together within existing airport infrastructure to support the development of more sustainable aviation operations.”
“Neat” SAF refers to the pure, unblended sustainable fuel. It is not used in aircraft in this form due to safety regulations. Instead, it is blended with conventional jet fuel before delivery. Purchasing agreements often cite “neat” volumes to track the exact amount of renewable content purchased.
As of early 2026, FedEx utilizes SAF at five U.S. airports: Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW), John F. Kennedy (JFK), Los Angeles (LAX), Chicago O’Hare (ORD), and Miami (MIA). The specific SAF used in this agreement, produced via the HEFA pathway, can reduce lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80% compared to conventional jet fuel.
FedEx Expands Sustainable Aviation Fuel Program to DFW and JFK Airports
Operational Details and Supply Chain
Strategic Context: The “Priority Earth” Goal
AirPro News Analysis
Stakeholder Commentary
Frequently Asked Questions
What is “Neat” SAF?
Where does FedEx use SAF?
What is the emission benefit?
Sources
Photo Credit: FedEx
Sustainable Aviation
Washington Launches Cascadia Sustainable Aviation Accelerator for SAF
The Cascadia Sustainable Aviation Accelerator launches with $20M funding to boost Pacific Northwest Sustainable Aviation Fuel production to 1 billion gallons annually by 2035.
This article is based on official press releases from Alaska Airlines and Washington State University, as well as public announcements from the launch event.
On January 8, 2026, a coalition of government, industry, and academic leaders officially launched the Cascadia Sustainable Aviation Accelerator (CSAA). Unveiled at the Boeing Future of Flight in Mukilteo, Washington, the initiative aims to establish the Pacific Northwest as a global leader in the production and deployment of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).
According to official announcements, the accelerator is backed by $20 million in initial funding. This capital includes $10 million from Washington State’s Climate Commitment Act funds and a matching $10 million contribution from an anonymous philanthropic donor. The coalition has set an ambitious target: to scale regional SAF production to 1 billion gallons annually by 2035.
The initiative represents a broad partnership designed to bridge the gap between policy, technology, and commercial viability. Washington Governor Bob Ferguson championed the launch, positioning it as both an economic engine and a critical climate solution for the state.
The coalition features major stakeholders across multiple sectors:
“We have all the pieces in place to ensure this once-in-a-generation economic opportunity is realized, and this accelerator will make that happen.”
, Governor Bob Ferguson, via official press release
To address the complex barriers facing the SAF market, the initiative is divided into two complementary arms: the Accelerator and the Institute.
The CSAA focuses on market acceleration, financing, and policy advocacy. Its primary mission is to “de-risk” the industry for producers and investors. By harmonizing tax incentives and aggregating fuel demand from airlines and corporate partners, the Accelerator aims to create a stable market environment that encourages rapid scaling of production facilities. The Institute will handle the technical and scientific challenges of SAF adoption. It will operate a new Sustainable Aviation Fuel Research and Development Center based at Paine Field in Snohomish County. While a permanent facility is scheduled for completion by 2029, the center will open in a temporary commercial space in the coming months.
A key feature of the Institute will be the world’s first “SAF Repository.” This facility will function similarly to a seed bank, collecting, indexing, and distributing fuel samples to researchers globally to standardize testing and certification processes.
“For aviation to remain strong and resilient in the decades ahead, sustainability must be part of its future.”
, Elizabeth Cantwell, WSU President, via WSU News
Sustainable Aviation Fuel is widely considered the most viable near-term solution for decarbonizing long-haul aviation. Made from feedstocks such as agricultural waste, used cooking oil, or captured carbon, SAF can reduce lifecycle emissions by up to 80% compared to conventional jet fuel. However, current supply accounts for less than 1% of global jet fuel usage, and it remains significantly more expensive than fossil-based alternatives.
The Pacific Northwest is viewed as an ideal “test bed” for solving these problems due to its access to renewable hydroelectric power, forestry and agricultural residues, and a deep aerospace talent pool.
The Accelerator aims to support existing regional projects, including:
“This is a systems issue that no one company can solve. You’ve got great companies… ready to use this fuel, but we have to make it available.”
, Guy Palumbo, Amazon Director of Public Policy, via launch event remarks
The launch of the Cascadia Sustainable Aviation Accelerator marks a shift from individual corporate sustainability goals to a systemic regional strategy. While the target of 1 billion gallons by 2035 is aggressive, the bifurcation of the initiative into an “Accelerator” (finance/policy) and an “Institute” (R&D) suggests a mature understanding of the bottlenecks. The primary challenge for the CSAA will be feedstock logistics. While the Pacific Northwest has abundant forestry and agricultural waste, the infrastructure to collect, transport, and process these materials at a scale capable of producing 1 billion gallons does not yet exist. Furthermore, the involvement of corporate giants like Amazon and Microsoft is critical; their willingness to pay a “green premium” for sustainable air cargo and travel could provide the demand certainty that producers need to secure financing for new plants.
Success will likely depend on how quickly the Institute can streamline the fuel certification process, which has historically been a slow hurdle for new SAF pathways.
Sources:
Washington Leaders Launch Cascadia Sustainable Aviation Accelerator to Power PNW SAF Hub
A Public-Private Coalition
Strategic Structure: Accelerator and Institute
The Cascadia Sustainable Aviation Accelerator (CSAA)
The Cascadia Sustainable Aviation Institute (CSAI)
Industry Context and Regional Projects
AirPro News Analysis
Photo Credit: Alaska Airlines
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