SOCAR Türkiye Begins Trading Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)

SOCAR Turkey, one of Turkey's leading energy and integrated industry groups, has announced that it has begun trading in Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) as part of its sustainability-focused strategy. The company conducted its first commercial operation in SAF trading on 29 January 2026 with the aim of contributing to the reduction of carbon emissions and supporting the aviation sector's transition to clean energy.

Acting with an approach to support the development of the SAF ecosystem, SOCAR Turkey aims to take concrete steps towards emission reduction in aviation by strengthening collaborations with sector stakeholders. The company also aims to contribute to international sustainable energy standards through its commercial activities.

Strategic Partnership with Turkish Airlines Reaches Critical Stage
The memorandum of understanding on SAF signed between SOCAR Turkey and Turkish Airlines on 13 August 2025 presented a shared vision towards implementing sustainability-focused strategic initiatives in the energy and aviation sectors. This partnership has been brought to a critical stage with the transition to SAF trading.

SAF: Contributing to a Low-Carbon Future
Elchin Ibadov, Chief Executive Officer of SOCAR Turkey, stated that they have adopted sustainability as one of the fundamental elements of the company's operations, saying:

"Our extensive knowledge base in the energy sector and our integrated business model enable us to take concrete steps towards a sustainable future. Our SAF initiative, which we are carrying out with the capacity of our group company STAR Refinery, our R&D strength and digital capabilities, is an important reflection of this vision. We believe that our work in the jet fuel field will develop further in the coming period and will open the way for new partnerships."

SAF can provide significantly lower life cycle emissions compared to conventional jet fuel according to appropriate raw materials and life cycle assessment (LCA) criteria. HEFA-based SAF, obtained in particular from used cooking oils and other biological waste, is recognized as a critical tool within international frameworks aimed at emission reduction in the aviation sector.

SOCAR Turkey will continue to pursue its sustainability efforts with environmental and social benefits at the centre.