The global push to decarbonise aviation has gained fresh momentum with the appointment of Paul Griffiths, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Airports, as CEO Champion of the Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Pathfinder Initiative under the Sustainable Markets Initiative (SMI).
Founded in 2020 by His Majesty King Charles III, then Prince of Wales, the Sustainable Markets Initiative brings together business leaders to accelerate the transition to a more sustainable global economy. Griffiths’ new role places him at the forefront of efforts to fast-track SAF adoption worldwide, at a time when aviation faces increasing pressure to cut its environmental footprint.
SAF is widely regarded as the most viable near-term solution for reducing aviation emissions, with the potential to lower lifecycle carbon emissions by up to 80 per cent. However, despite its promise, SAF currently accounts for less than one per cent of global jet fuel supply. Through the SAF Pathfinder Initiative, SMI aims to close this gap by aligning stakeholders across aviation, energy, finance and public policy to unlock production, investment and infrastructure at scale.
Griffiths’ appointment draws on his leadership of Dubai Airports, operator of Dubai International (DXB), the world’s busiest international airport, and Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International (DWC). Under his stewardship, Dubai Airports has positioned sustainability as a core strategic priority, combining operational scale with innovation to reduce emissions across airport operations.
“I’m honoured to take on this role at such a critical time for our industry,” Griffiths said. “Sustainable Aviation Fuel is one of the most important levers we have to decarbonise flight, and accelerating its availability and adoption will be essential if aviation is to meet its climate commitments. Working alongside partners through initiatives such as the oneDXB Sustainability Alliance, we are focused on driving coordinated action that delivers real impact.”
Dubai Airports’ sustainability credentials were reinforced by its recent achievement of Level 4 “Transformation” accreditation from Airports Council International, a distinction held by only the top five per cent of airports globally. The recognition reflects wide-ranging initiatives, including the introduction of biodiesel-powered ground fleets, significant emissions reductions across operations, and the rollout of green infrastructure projects at DXB.
For the Sustainable Markets Initiative, Griffiths’ leadership is expected to bring both urgency and practical experience to the SAF Pathfinder Initiative as the aviation sector works towards its 2050 net-zero target.
Jennifer Jordan-Saifi, Chief Executive Officer of the Sustainable Markets Initiative, described SAF as a catalyst not only for cleaner aviation but for broader sustainable investment and innovation. “With Paul Griffiths’ proven track record and commitment to collaboration, we are confident the SAF Pathfinder Initiative will accelerate adoption at scale and help shape a more sustainable future for global aviation,” she said.
As demand for cleaner flight intensifies, Griffiths’ new role underscores the growing influence of airport operators in shaping aviation’s transition, positioning Dubai Airports as a key driver in the global journey towards lower-carbon air travel.
