Spanish carrier Iberia and Compania Espanola de Petroleos (Cepsa) recently signed a partnership to promote the use of biofuels for aviation. The agreement also includes research on alternative sources such as hydrogen and electric, both for aircraft and cars, as well as flight tests on the new propellant, which will be produced on a large scale, using waste, recycled waste oil or other vegetable raw materials.

"This agreement represents an important step in this journey towards more sustainable air transport, in line with our joint commitment to decarbonising the sector", says Iberia Express CEO Carlos Gómez.

According to data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) biofuels can reduce emissions in the aviation sector by up to 80% compared to conventional propellants. With this agreement Cepsa becomes a strategic supplier for the airline and at the same time updates its business, shifting part of its activities to the exploitation of clean energy. For its part the airline is seeking to secure preferential access to a valuable commodity and gain an advantage over its competitors.