SPARFELL’s Proactive Approach to Refuel EU: Insights from the Geneva Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Forum

SPARFELL’s Proactive Approach to Refuel EU: Insights from the Geneva Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Forum

At SPARFELL, we are proud to participate in key industry discussions that shape the future of sustainable aviation. One such occasion was the recent Geneva SAF Forum, where our CEO, Edward Queffelec shared insights on behalf of SPARFELL and the wider business aviation community alongside Mr. Jean-Marc Thévenaz, CEO of easyJet Switzerland; Ms. Jessica De Lange, Head of Corporate Development & Corporate Responsibility at Swiss International Air Lines; and Mr. Daniel Chereau, Head of Fuel at IATA.

Understanding the Unique Operational Landscape
Unlike commercial airlines that operate on fixed routes and schedules, SPARFELL’s business aviation services are built on flexibility and on-demand flights to thousands of smaller airports worldwide. As Edward noted, this operational model can make applying one-size-fits-all regulations, like Refuel EU, a real challenge.

“Our aircraft often have 2000-liter tanks and fly to destinations booked only hours in advance,” Edward explained. This highlights a key challenge: under Refuel EU, operators are expected to take 90 percent of their planned fuel load at Union airports. For smaller aircraft and short-notice flights, this requirement can introduce operational friction, especially during peak summer periods when fuel truck delays become more frequent. These disruptions can conflict with the flexibility and speed that defines business aviation. While committed to sustainability, SPARFELL believes that aligning regulations with the realities of our sector can improve both efficiency and environmental outcomes.

Advocating for Pragmatic Flexibility
SPARFELL believes that sustainability and practicality must go hand in hand. We advocate for regulatory flexibility, particularly in exemptions for smaller aircraft, below 30 tons maximum takeoff weight or with fewer than 19 seats. The current requirement for route-based exemptions, which must be submitted to the authority three months ahead of the “planned” flight, does not align with the short notice nature of business aviation. A more adaptable approach is needed to support operational efficiency while maintaining sustainability commitments.

Collaborating for a Sustainable Future
SPARFELL remains committed to reducing emissions and supporting the sustainable transition of aviation. We are actively engaged with third-party SAF suppliers, airports, and regulatory stakeholders to expand the availability of sustainable aviation fuel and support broader SAF adoption across the industry.

As part of our sustainability efforts, SPARFELL also offers SAF through a certified Book & Claim service. While this mechanism is not currently counted toward any of the obligatory greenhouse gas regulations, including Refuel EU, it provides our clients with a verified way to support an increase of SAF production globally and reduce lifecycle emissions, especially when operating to locations where SAF is not yet physically available.

For SPARFELL, fuel costs account for about 10 to 12 percent of operational expenses, which is significantly lower than for commercial airlines. This allows us to be more agile in adopting SAF and supporting client sustainability goals. Our clients increasingly see responsible aviation as a core value, and we are proud to help them align their travel with their environmental commitments.

Constructive Engagement with Regulators and Stakeholders
Edward Queffelec’s message to EASA, FOCA, and Geneva Airport was both clear and constructive:

« We recognise the shared goals of sustainability and climate action. With a collaborative approach and regulatory understanding, we can make SAF adoption a real success in business aviation. »

SPARFELL is committed to:

• Working closely with third-party suppliers to ensure reliable and scalable SAF supply
• Collaborating with EASA, FOCA, and Geneva Airport to advocate for solutions that recognise business aviation’s unique role
• Helping our clients meet their sustainability targets while maintaining the operational flexibility they expect

Looking Ahead
SPARFELL remains a proactive partner in the journey of decarbonizing aviation. We will continue to engage constructively with regulators, suppliers, and clients to ensure that sustainability remains a practical and achievable goal across the business aviation sector.