Hawaiian, Alaska to Fly With Hawaii-Made Biofuel Starting 2026
Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines plan to begin operating select flights using biofuel produced in Hawaii from early next year, marking a significant step toward building a local sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) ecosystem in the state. The two carriers, both owned by Alaska Air Group, will also invest in a joint venture aimed at developing an in-state supply chain for SAF.
The initiative brings together airline operators, fuel producers, and agricultural partners to reduce aviation emissions while supporting Hawaii’s broader clean-energy goals. A central partner is fuel refinery operator Par Hawaii, which is working to expand renewable fuel production at its Kapolei facility. The airlines are also supporting efforts to cultivate Camelina sativa—commonly known as false flax—as a local feedstock for aviation biofuel and as a by-product source for animal feed.
Airline executives say the program aligns with Hawaii’s target to meet 100% of its energy needs from renewable sources by 2045. Alanna James, sustainability innovation director at Hawaiian and Alaska, said reducing environmental impact is part of the airlines’ responsibility while continuing to provide essential air service across the islands and beyond. She added that sustainable aviation fuel will be a cornerstone of the carriers’ long-term net-zero ambitions.
Hawaiian began feasibility studies with Par Hawaii in 2022 to assess whether SAF could be produced commercially in the state. That work accelerated after Alaska Air Group completed its acquisition of Hawaiian Airlines in September 2024. Par Hawaii, a unit of Par Pacific Holdings, has invested heavily to convert portions of its refinery to renewable fuels for air, land, and marine transport, with renewable fuel production expected to begin between January and March next year.
Once fully operational, the facility is expected to produce around 61 million gallons annually, with up to 60% designed for aviation fuel. Early output will prioritize renewable diesel, while SAF volumes ramp up. Initial feedstocks will include canola oil, used cooking oil, and animal fats, with locally grown Camelina expected to play a growing role.
Honolulu-based conservation firm Pono Pacific is leading Camelina cultivation efforts, testing non-GMO varieties across the islands. The crop matures quickly, resists pests, and can be grown alongside food crops—supporting a closed-loop model that links renewable fuels, agriculture, and food security.
While initial SAF volumes will be limited due to cost and supply constraints, Hawaiian and Alaska are expected to be the first buyers of locally produced aviation fuel. Together, the airlines consume more than 200 million gallons of jet fuel annually in Hawaii, underscoring the long-term potential of a homegrown SAF supply supported by airlines, producers, and state policy incentives.
Related News: https://airguide.info/?s=alaska+airlines
Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, bioenergytimes.com