By Brazil Stock Guide – Embraer S.A. (NYSE: ERJ, B3: EMBR3) will ramp up tests to certify its aircraft for flights powered entirely by sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), without blending fossil-based kerosene. The milestone follows the company’s first acquisition of a 100% SAF batch in Brazil, supplied by Vibra Energia (B3: VBBR3), the country’s largest fuel distributor. The product enables in-house trials in São José dos Campos, focusing on how non-metallic materials react to prolonged exposure to the biofuel.
The push underscores a critical step in aviation’s decarbonization drive. SAF can reduce carbon emissions by up to 80% compared with conventional jet fuel. Embraer’s entire fleet is currently certified to fly with blends of up to 50%, but the company aims to secure global approval for 100% SAF operations by 2030.
“Access to SAF in Brazil provides greater agility for our tests. This action brings us closer to the goal of having our aircraft ready by 2030,” said André Tachard, Embraer’s Global Head of ESG.
Until now, availability was limited. Embraer relied on labs in the US and Europe, where SAF was sold only in large volumes, mismatched with smaller-scale testing needs. Vibra’s import of certified fuel — approved under ISCC EU and CORSIA standards — unlocked access at Rio de Janeiro’s Galeão Airport (GIG), where its aviation unit BR Aviation manages distribution.
“Partnerships like the one with Embraer are vital to accelerating aviation’s energy transition. By enabling SAF access in Brazil, we are helping shape a strategic market for decarbonization,” said Marcelo Bragança, Vibra’s Vice President of Operations.
What’s at Stake
Brazil has vast potential for SAF production thanks to abundant biomass but lacks large-scale output. Embraer’s move positions the company at the center of technical and regulatory discussions, while paving the way for Brazil to become a global hub for sustainable aviation fuels.
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