RAF planes patrolling Scotland's skies fuelled by blend including used cooking oil

Royal Air Force (RAF) planes patrolling Scotland’s skies are being fuelled by a blend of used cooking oil and conventional jet fuel for the first time.

Operating from RAF Lossiemouth in Moray, aircraft including Typhoon and Poseidon submarine hunters are using sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) on routine operations.

In 2024, four million litres of blended SAFs were delivered to the RAF through a contract with World Fuel Services, with a further five million litres to be delivered in the coming months.

Sustainable fuel sources include hydrogenated fats and oils, wood waste, alcohols, sugars, household waste, biomass and algae.

RAF aircraft using used cooking oil as fuel Royal Air Force

As aviation currently accounts for nearly two-thirds of fuel used across defence, this first for the RAF demonstrates the Ministry of Defence’s commitment to reduce carbon emissions with no compromise to national security.

In 2020, the Ministry of Defence updated aviation fuel standards to allow up to 50% sustainable sources to be used in fuel mixes for defence aircraft.

It is believed using SAF can cut aircraft carbon emissions by up to 70% and as the RAF bids to achieve its ambition to be net zero by 2040.

Defence Minister Lord Vernon Coaker said: “The pioneering use of sustainable fuels on routine operations shows how we’re delivering on our first priority to keep Britain secure without compromise, while addressing our carbon footprint.”

Shaun Harris, director support air vice-marshal said: “We remain at the forefront of this important work with industry partners, and introducing sustainable aviation fuel to one of our busiest stations demonstrates our commitment, bringing defence and industry together to reduce our carbon footprint.

“As well as contributing to reduced carbon emissions as part of the Defence Aviation Net Zero Strategy, our ability to use new fuels ensures that the Royal Air Force can continue to operate anywhere we are needed globally.”

RAF Lossiemouth is one of the UK’s busiest stations and home to Typhoon aircraft ready to deploy 24/7.

Sarah Brewin, RAF Lossiemouth’s station commander group captain said: “The routine use of sustainable aviation fuel represents an important milestone in the RAF’s journey towards helping mitigate against climate change.

“By integrating sustainable practices into our operations, we are not only enhancing our ability to protect the nation and deliver excellence on operations, but also contributing to a more sustainable future for generations to come.”