The United States has strongly objected to a recent recommendation on so-called “sustainable” aviation fuels (SAF) made during the 13th Triennial Meeting of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Committee on Aviation Environmental Protection (CAEP) held in Montreal, Canada this month. The proposal, which endorses multi-cropping—the practice of cultivating two or more crops on the same land for SAF production—has drawn sharp criticism from the U.S. delegation.
According to the U.S. Department of State, this recommendation unfairly disadvantages American farmers while granting an economic edge to Brazil and other select nations. U.S. officials argue that the proposal lacks robust scientific and technical justification and could negatively impact global food security and disrupt established agricultural markets. Despite these concerns, CAEP adopted the recommendation, a move the U.S. government warns could exacerbate deforestation in fragile tropical ecosystems while simultaneously harming the American agricultural and aviation industries.
U.S. Commitment to Fair Aviation Policies
The United States remains committed to engaging in constructive discussions within ICAO and CAEP, advocating for policies that protect U.S. economic interests, global food security, and the environment. The U.S. delegation has reaffirmed its willingness to collaborate with ICAO member states, the American aviation industry, and key stakeholders to develop science-based, economically viable SAF policies that promote true sustainability.
In alignment with the recently issued Executive Order, “Putting America First in International Environmental Agreements,” U.S. representatives worked alongside 33 ICAO member states, industry leaders, and environmental experts to promote initiatives that uphold aviation safety, strengthen U.S. leadership in civil supersonic aircraft technology, and address other critical aviation policy issues.
Acknowledging ICAO’s Efforts
Despite objections to the SAF recommendation, the United States appreciates ICAO’s leadership in addressing environmental challenges in aviation. The U.S. delegation also recognizes the efforts of CAEP’s co-chairs, working groups, and facilitators in organizing this high-level policy discussion in Montreal. The U.S. remains dedicated to shaping aviation policies that balance innovation, environmental responsibility, and economic prosperity on the global stage.