Starting in January 2025, Cluj International Airport has begun fueling aircraft with sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) supplied by OMV Petrom, marking a significant step toward reducing carbon emissions in air transport. With 3.3 million passengers in 2024, Cluj International is Romania’s largest regional airport and the country’s second busiest after Otopeni. The introduction of SAF aligns with European Union sustainability regulations and industry-wide efforts to reduce the carbon footprint of aviation.

The SAF used at Cluj Airport consists of a 2% blend with conventional jet fuel, ensuring a lower environmental impact. During January and February, approximately 1,800 flights took off using this fuel, covering all departures from the airport. OMV Petrom, the leading integrated energy producer in Southeastern Europe, has committed to expanding SAF production. The company has already invested €750 million in the construction of a facility at the Petrobrazi refinery, expected to start producing SAF in 2028.

According to OMV Petrom’s Executive Board member Radu Căprău, responsible for Refining and Marketing, the SAF currently supplied is made from waste oils and animal fats, processed through advanced refining techniques. The company envisions Romania as a future regional hub for sustainable aviation fuels, reinforcing the country’s strategic role in Europe’s energy transition.

Cluj International Airport has also introduced additional sustainability measures. Alongside SAF adoption, the airport has purchased two electric aircraft de-icing vehicles and an electric bus for passenger transportation between terminals and aircraft. Airport Director David Ciceo emphasized that this initiative reflects Cluj Airport’s ongoing commitment to carbon reduction and environmentally friendly air travel.

Sustainable aviation fuels play a crucial role in the future of the industry. SAF can cut lifetime carbon emissions by up to 80% compared to traditional jet fuels, while being fully compatible with existing aircraft and airport infrastructure. The European Union’s ReFuelEU Aviation regulation mandates that all EU airports must ensure at least 2% SAF blending from January 2025, with gradual increases to 6% by 2030.

With these developments, Cluj International Airport strengthens its position as a pioneer in sustainable aviation within Romania, supporting both national and European efforts to achieve a greener future in air travel.

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