The transition to sustainable aviation fuel: insights from patent analysis and policy implications

• Patent analysis reveals the landscape of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) innovation. • Three regional disparity groups in SAF innovation activities. • Patent data and policy analysis identify gaps and opportunities in SAF transition. • Region-specific strategy and aligned global standard are needed in SAF transition. The aviation industry has committed to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050, with sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) identified as the most promising solution. The transition to SAF is mainly influenced by technological advancements, production capacities, and policy incentives. However, the rapidly evolving and diverse nature of SAF technologies complicates the landscape, resulting in a lack of value chain transparency and difficulties in understanding regional patterns in the SAF transition. This study addresses these challenges by constructing and analyzing a global database of SAF-related patents to examine SAF technology development trends, regional differences in innovation and patenting activities, the distribution of SAF technology domains, and key players in the supply chain. The analysis reveals regional disparities in innovation ecosystems and gaps in policy design while providing insights into the roles of stakeholders across the SAF value chain. Informed by these findings, the study makes policy recommendations aimed at addressing regional disparities, harmonizing SAF mandates, and aligning production with market dynamics, thereby supporting the sustainable decarbonization of aviation systems.