Madagascar is exploring the development of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) as an alternative to fossil fuels in air transport. Technicians and experts met on Monday in Anosy to examine the feasibility of this type of biofuel in the country, with support from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the European Union.
Discussions focused on available resources, local production potential, technical aspects, and the economic conditions required to establish such an industry. The goal is to assess whether Madagascar has the potential to produce or integrate SAF into its aviation sector.
“Before starting production, we must first conduct a study to determine what is truly favorable, as each country develops its own solutions. In India, for example, they already use used oils. In Madagascar, we must identify the most suitable products, particularly those linked to food,” explained Sébastien Andriamanorozafy, environmental focal point at the Civil Aviation of Madagascar (ACM).
“The idea is to encourage people to produce crops for food, and then valorize the agricultural waste and residues,” he added. A feasibility study is being conducted over nine months to allow researchers and experts to analyze options and evaluate resources.
Sustainable aviation fuel is seen as a way to gradually reduce the aviation industry’s dependence on fossil fuels and limit greenhouse gas emissions. It can be produced from various renewable raw materials, such as waste, agricultural residues, or other biological resources. “Some come from waste. There are also marine algae. In other countries, jatropha is used. In Ivory Coast, for example, studies are being conducted on cassava,” noted Sébastien Andriamanorozafy.
For Madagascar, the challenge is to determine which resources can be mobilized in a sustainable and economically viable manner. At the end of the nine-month study, the conclusions will allow authorities and stakeholders to decide on the next steps for developing a sustainable aviation fuel industry in the country.
Captured & Published at: 2026-09-29 12:08:39 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.2424.mg/energie-madagascar-etudie-la-faisabilite-du-carburant-daviation-durable/
