Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien visited the Trinity College Dublin Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Research Facility at SMBC Aviation Capital’s headquarters in Dublin this week, highlighting Ireland’s growing role in advancing sustainable aviation and supporting global decarbonisation efforts.
Located at SMBC Aviation Capital’s Fitzwilliam 28 offices, the facility represents a unique collaboration between academia and the aircraft leasing sector, focused on accelerating the development and deployment of Sustainable Aviation Fuel. As aviation works toward net-zero emissions by 2050, SAF is widely recognised as the most effective near-term solution, offering lifecycle CO₂ emissions reductions of up to 70–80% while remaining compatible with existing aircraft and infrastructure.
The visit follows the publication of Ireland’s Sustainable Aviation Fuel Policy Roadmap by the Department of Transport, developed with input from the Sustainable Aviation Fuel Task Force and key industry stakeholders. The Roadmap outlines strategic pathways to support SAF production, certification, and adoption in Ireland.
The Trinity College Dublin SAF Research Facility supports the EU SAF Clearing House, sponsored by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), by providing technical pre-screening and advisory services to emerging fuel producers. This work helps bridge scientific, regulatory, and commercial gaps that currently limit SAF scale-up. The facility is supported by Aircraft Leasing Ireland, Ryanair, and Research Ireland.
During the visit, Minister O’Brien met with researchers and industry partners and viewed the facility’s work first-hand. Professor Stephen Dooley, Director of the Trinity College Dublin SAF Research Facility, outlined how the team supports the rigorous technical evaluation of new fuels, helping producers progress toward regulatory approval and commercial readiness.
Professor Mohammad Reza Ghaani highlighted ongoing research into the relationship between molecular fuel structure and aviation safety and performance, which has the potential to accelerate certification processes for future SAF pathways.
The visit reaffirmed the shared commitment of government, academia, and industry to positioning Ireland at the forefront of sustainable aviation innovation.