The transformation of Europe’s aviation sector continues to gain speed. On 4 December 2025, the European Commission launched the Early Movers Coalition (EMC). This is a new initiative designed to accelerate the market ramp-up of Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF). It includes Power-to-X fuels such as eSAF produced from renewable electricity and captured CO₂. The move is urgent. To meet the demand resulting from the blending mandates in Switzerland and the EU, construction of production facilities has to start now.

SAF is considered essential for reducing emissions in aviation, as other decarbonisation pathways remain limited for long-haul flights. Power-to-X technologies are particularly important. They enable the production of synthetic, drop-in compatible fuels independent from biogenic sources. These fuels can be used in today’s aircraft and infrastructure.

The EMC unites airlines, fuel producers, airports and technology developers. These participants commit to purchasing or supplying SAF earlier and at larger volumes than required by regulation. The coalition’s purpose is to send a clear market signal. This signal can help scale production. It can reduce costs and improve investment security for new SAF and Power-to-X projects across Europe.

The EMC cooperates closely with the implementation of ReFuelEU Aviation. This collaboration aims to close the gap between policy targets and real market availability. The coalition also focuses on transparency, monitoring, and collaboration. This approach ensures that early actors can share practical knowledge. It also helps accelerate deployment.

For the Power-to-X community, the EMC marks another important step. Synthetic aviation fuels rely on renewable electricity, green hydrogen and captured CO₂, making them a key example of how Power-to-X contributes to a defossilised energy system. With stronger demand signals from industry, more projects may now move from planning to investment and construction.

As Europe works toward climate-neutral aviation, initiatives like the Early Movers Coalition highlight how policy, industry collaboration and innovative technologies can come together to make large-scale change possible.

Source: European Commission (2025). EU launches Early Movers Coalition to accelerate Sustainable Aviation Fuel uptake.