Farm to Fly Act of 2024
2/2/2024, 1:45 PMSummary of Bill S 3637
The Farm to Fly Act of 2024, also known as Bill 118 s 3637, is a piece of legislation introduced in the US Congress with the aim of promoting the use of sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs) made from agricultural feedstocks. The bill seeks to incentivize the production and use of SAFs by providing grants and loan guarantees to farmers, biofuel producers, and aviation companies.One of the key provisions of the Farm to Fly Act is the establishment of a grant program to support the research and development of SAFs. This program would provide funding for projects that aim to improve the efficiency and sustainability of SAF production, as well as for the construction of new biofuel production facilities.
Additionally, the bill includes measures to increase the availability of SAFs at airports across the country. This includes funding for the installation of SAF blending infrastructure at airports, as well as grants to help airlines purchase SAFs. The Farm to Fly Act also aims to support farmers by providing financial incentives for the production of feedstocks used in SAF production. This includes grants for farmers to grow crops such as corn, soybeans, and algae that can be used to produce biofuels. Overall, the Farm to Fly Act of 2024 is a comprehensive piece of legislation that seeks to promote the use of sustainable aviation fuels and reduce the carbon footprint of the aviation industry. By providing support for SAF production, infrastructure development, and feedstock cultivation, the bill aims to help the US aviation sector transition to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future.
Congressional Summary of S 3637
Farm to Fly Act of 2024
This bill directs the Department of Agriculture (USDA) to integrate the advancement of sustainable aviation fuels into its programs.
Specifically, this bill includes sustainable aviation fuel as an advanced biofuel for the purposes of several USDA bioenergy programs that primarily provide support and incentives for renewable energy projects.
For purposes of these programs, the bill defines sustainable aviation fuel as liquid fuel, the portion of which is not kerosene, which (1) meets specific international standards, (2) is not derived from coprocessing specific materials (e.g., triglycerides) with a non-biomass feedstock, (3) is not derived from palm fatty acid distillates or petroleum, and (4) is certified as having a lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions reduction percentage of at least 50% compared with petroleum-based jet fuel (based on specific standards and agreements).
In addition, the bill specifically includes fostering and advancing sustainable aviation fuels as part of the Biorefinery, Renewable Chemical, and Biobased Product Manufacturing Assistance Program.
Further, USDA must carry out a comprehensive and integrated pursuit of all USDA mission areas for the advancement of sustainable aviation fuels, including through
- the identification of opportunities to maximize the development and commercialization of the fuels,
- supporting rural economic development through improved sustainability for aviation, and
- advancing public-private partnerships.
