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MB Energy

Aviation Fuels

Briefly explained: Aviation fuels are specially developed energy sources for the safe and efficient operation of aircraft. The most important standard worldwide is Jet A-1, a conventional type of kerosene used in commercial aviation.

In addition, Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) is becoming increasingly important. SAF is produced from renewable or biogenic raw materials and can significantly reduce CO₂ emissions over its life cycle.

MB Energy offers both Jet A-1 and SAF, supporting a reliable supply today and a more sustainable aviation of tomorrow.

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Jet A-1 and SAF

Energy to fly

Aviation Fuels in our Portfolio

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Jet A-1

Jet A-1 is the standard jet fuel used in commercial aviation worldwide. It is used as a fuel for turbofan and turboprop aircraft and is subject to strict international specifications. Consistent fuel quality and supply are essential for safe and efficient flight operations.

At MB Energy, Jet A-1 supply is tailored to your operational requirements. We combine standard-compliant fuel products with integrated logistics to ensure seamless availability, traceability and control throughout your network.

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Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)

SAF is a certified drop-in aviation fuel designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions over its entire life cycle while being fully compatible with existing aircraft and refueling systems. It enables airlines and operators to integrate lower-emission fuel into ongoing operations without technical adjustments.

At MB Energy, SAF supply is tailored to your operational requirements. We integrate into the existing airport infrastructure to ensure reliable availability, compliant handling and alignment with your refueling processes.

What is Jet A-1?

Jet A-1 is the most widely used commercial aviation fuel in the world. It is a kerosene-type fuel developed specifically for gas turbine engines, including turbofan and turboprop aircraft used in the global aviation network.

It is defined and regulated by international specifications to ensure consistent performance, safety and compatibility across different aircraft types and operating environments. These specifications regulate properties such as freezing point, flash point and combustion characteristics.

Jet A-1 from MB Energy fully complies with the AFQRJOS checklist. It meets the requirements of Def Stan 91-091 (Issue 11), ASTM D1655 (latest edition) and NATO Specification F-35, ensuring that fuel quality, traceability and regulatory compliance are guaranteed with every refueling.

In practice, Jet A-1 enables reliable engine performance at different altitudes and temperatures, supporting uninterrupted flight operations from take-off to landing.

Typical Areas of Application

Jet A-1 is used in a variety of aviation sectors where turbine engines are used.

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Commercial Aviation

Jet A-1 is the standard fuel for scheduled passenger and cargo flights. It enables high-frequency flight operations with uniform fuel quality requirements at international airports.

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Regional and Charter Operations

For regional airlines and charter services, Jet A-1 enables flexible route planning and operational reliability despite different airport infrastructures.

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Cargo and logistics aviation

The air cargo industry relies on Jet A-1 to meet tight delivery deadlines and ensure the continuity of the global supply chain.

Technical Specifications

Jet A-1 is subject to internationally recognized standards that ensure consistent quality and performance in aviation markets worldwide. Its properties are designed for safe handling, storage and combustion in turbine engines.

Standards and approvals

The Jet A-1 supplied by MB Energy complies with the AFQRJOS checklist and meets the requirements of Def Stan 91-091 (Issue 11), ASTM D1655 (latest edition) and NATO F-35 specifications, which define quality, handling and performance parameters for aviation fuels.

Emissions Classification

Jet A-1 is a conventional aviation fuel. Its emission profile is determined by the combustion of hydrocarbons in turbine engines. The emission performance depends on the engine type, operating conditions and fuel management procedures.

Chemical Composition

Jet A-1 is a kerosene-type hydrocarbon fuel consisting of molecules with a precisely defined carbon chain length. Its composition is subject to strict controls to ensure consistent combustion behavior and compatibility with aircraft fuel systems.

Ignition Quality (Combustion Behaviour)

Jet A-1 is designed for stable and efficient combustion in turbine engines. Its ignition and combustion characteristics ensure reliable engine operation in various flight phases, including take-off and cruising altitude.

Cold Flow Properties

Jet A-1 has a low freezing point, enabling operation at high altitudes where temperatures are significantly lower. As a result, the fuel remains liquid and operational even on long-haul flights.

Storage Stability

Jet A-1 is designed for stable storage under controlled conditions. Proper handling and appropriate storage facilities are required to ensure the quality of the fuel and prevent contamination along the entire supply chain.

Product Benefits

Reliable global standard

Jet A-1 is the established fuel in international aviation, ensuring compatibility with aircraft, infrastructure and legal frameworks worldwide.

Consistent fuel quality

Compliance with AFQRJOS, Def Stan 91-091, ASTM D1655 and NATO specifications ensures that the fuel properties remain within the specified limits with every delivery.

Operational reliability

Stable combustion behavior and controlled performance data ensure uninterrupted engine performance in all flight phases.

Traceability and compliance

Documented specifications and controlled supply chains enable seamless traceability from the warehouse to collection.

Integrated supply approach

Jet A-1 is provided through a well-organized logistics network and partnerships, ensuring efficient and coordinated flight operations.

Supply & Delivery


MB Energy supplies Jet A-1 via an integrated aviation fuel network.

We work in partnership with refueling service providers and airport storage operators to ensure consistent fuel availability. This enables coordinated delivery from storage infrastructure to aircraft refueling.

Our business is based on safety, compliance and efficient management. Fuel supply is supported by flexible procurement and refueling solutions, allowing you to tailor procurement to your operational requirements.

Each year we refuel more than 50,000 aircraft in the UK, Germany and Scandinavia. Our network continues to grow, providing access to Jet A-1 at additional locations.

MB Energy is a member of JIG and a strategic partner of IATA, which strengthens operational alignment with industry standards and procedures.

Product Variants

 Jet A-1 is supplied within a broader aviation fuel portfolio to reflect different regulatory, operational, and sustainability requirements.

Variants exist to support specific use cases, infrastructure conditions, and evolving fuel strategies within aviation. While Jet A-1 remains the standard conventional fuel, alternative aviation fuels can complement it depending on operational requirements. 

Jet A-1

Standard aviation turbine fuel for worldwide use - Jet A-1 is the conventional kerosene-based aviation fuel used in passenger, cargo and regional aviation. It is suitable for all standard turbine aircraft and fully complies with international specifications.

Sustainable aviation fuels (SAF)

Alternative aviation fuels with defined blending requirements - SAF, including advanced biofuels and e-fuels - can be provided alongside Jet A-1 depending on availability and approval. These fuels are used within defined blending limits and legal frameworks.

Process

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How it works

The supply of Jet A-1 is structured as a coordinated process from procurement to refueling of the aircraft.

The fuel is procured in accordance with international specifications and delivered to the airport's storage infrastructure. From there, the refueling services ensure that the fuel is transferred directly to the aircraft.

MB Energy coordinates the supply, logistics and administrative processes to ensure that the fuel is available where and when it is needed. This includes maintaining partnerships, documentation and operational coordination between the sites.

The result is a consistent and traceable fuel supply process that ensures uninterrupted flight operations.

FAQ

How does Jet A-1 differ from other aviation fuels?

Jet A-1 is the global standard for turbine engines in civil aviation. It differs from other aviation fuels in its specification, in particular its freezing point and its international recognition. It is designed for use at high altitudes and is used in most commercial aircraft worldwide.

What standards must Jet A-1 meet?

Jet A-1 must comply with internationally recognized specifications such as AFQRJOS, Def Stan 91-091 and ASTM D1655. These standards define parameters for fuel quality, safety and performance. MB Energy supplies Jet A-1 that meets all relevant specifications, including NATO F-35 requirements.

How is Jet A-1 delivered to airplanes?

Jet A-1 is supplied via the airport's refueling facilities and then handed over to the aircraft as part of the aircraft refueling process. This process is coordinated between logistics service providers, refueling facility operators and fuel suppliers to ensure punctual and safe delivery.

Can Jet A-1 be used worldwide?

Yes, Jet A-1 is recognized on the international aviation markets. Thanks to its standardized specification, it can be used at different airports, in different aircraft types and under different legal frameworks without compatibility problems.

What role does MB Energy play in the supply of aviation fuel?

MB Energy delivers Jet A-1 through an integrated network of logistics partners, storage providers and refueling services. We take care of delivery coordination, regulatory compliance and administrative processes to ensure reliable flight operations.

Are there alternative aviation fuels besides Jet A-1?

Yes, MB Energy also supplies sustainable aviation fuels (SAF), including advanced biofuels and e-fuels. These can be integrated into aviation fuel strategies depending on availability, certification and operational requirements.

How is fuel quality ensured along the entire supply chain?

Fuel quality is guaranteed through compliance with international specifications, controlled storage conditions and standardized handling procedures. Documentation and traceability are guaranteed at every stage, from procurement to refueling of the aircraft.

What is Sustainable Aviation Fuel?

 

Sustainable Aviation Fuel is a certified aviation fuel designed to function as a direct substitute for conventional jet fuel. It is classified as a drop-in fuel, meaning it can be used within existing aircraft engines, airport fuelling systems, and infrastructure without modification.

SAF is produced from biogenic feedstocks, including alcohols, carbon-rich biomass, and animal or vegetable fats. These feedstocks are processed into Synthetic Paraffinic Kerosene (SPK), which forms the basis of SAF blend components.

Before use, SAF must be blended with conventional jet fuel and recertified to standard jet fuel specifications. Once certified, it performs identically to Jet A-1 across all aircraft types and fuelling systems.

In operational terms, SAF provides a practical pathway to reduce lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions within existing aviation frameworks, without requiring changes to assets or infrastructure. 

Typical Applications

SAF is used throughout commercial and operational aviation where compatibility, compliance and scalability are required.

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Commercial aviation

Airlines are integrating SAF into their existing fuel supply chains to reduce lifecycle emissions while maintaining normal operations and fleet performance.

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Business Aviation

Airlines use SAF to achieve the company's sustainability goals without having to make changes to aircraft systems or refueling procedures.

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Airport fuel systems

SAF is fed directly into the airport's tank farms and hydrant systems, which enables centralized distribution within the existing infrastructure.

Technical Specifications

SAF is defined by internationally recognized aviation fuel standards and measurable performance characteristics. After blending and certification, it meets the same specifications as conventional Jet A-1.

Standards and Approvals

The composition of the SAF blend component is subject to the ASTM D7566 standard. After blending with conventional jet fuel, the finished fuel is recertified in accordance with ASTM D1655 or DEF STAN 91-091. This ensures full compliance with global aviation fuel requirements and unrestricted use in aircraft and infrastructure.

Chemical Composition

Compared to conventional aviation fuel, SAF can lead to a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions of around 80% over the entire life cycle, depending on the source material and production process. This classification is based on a life cycle analysis and not on emissions at the point of consumption.

Ignition Quality (combustion behavior)

SAF consists of paraffinic hydrocarbons derived from processed biogenic feedstocks. Unlike conventional fuels, which contain fossil components, the SAF blend components are free of aromatic compounds and must be blended to meet the final fuel specifications.

Cold Flow Properties

The cold flow behavior depends on the final specification of the fuel mixture. After certification, SAF meets the same requirements for low-temperature operability as conventional Jet A-1.

Storage Stability

SAF has stable storage properties after blending and certification. As a paraffinic fuel, it shows high oxidation resistance compared to fuels containing FAME components.

Product advantages

Supports emission compliance

SAF can be integrated directly into existing aircraft engines and the refueling infrastructure without any modifications, which simplifies its introduction in all fleets and at all locations.

Lifecycle emissions reduction

By using biogenic raw materials, SAF can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions over the entire life cycle compared to conventional aviation fuel and thus support strategies for the decarbonization of aviation.

Operational continuity

Once certified, SAF behaves exactly like Jet A-1, so no changes to refueling procedures, maintenance routines or performance expectations are required.

Scalable Implementation

SAF can be integrated into existing fuel supply systems, allowing for gradual expansion based on availability, infrastructure and operational planning.

Supply & Delivery


MB Energy supplies SAF directly to airport fuel depots in the UK, Germany and Scandinavia. Delivery is in line with existing aviation fuel logistics and infrastructure.

We offer two delivery models:

Aircraft refueling: complete refueling service handled directly at the aircraft, via MB Energy's relationships with third party suppliers.

Hydrant system supply: Fuel is delivered via the airport systems, with the logistics for refueling at the aircraft organized by the customer.

SAF is distributed via established aviation fuel logistics networks, including pipelines, tankers, rail and barges, once it is certified as a finished fuel. In its unmixed form, it is handled separately.

Product Variants

SAF is available in different forms depending on the stage within the supply chain and the intended use.

There are different variants that reflect how the fuel is handled, blended and certified before its final use. The distinction between blended components and finished fuel determines how SAF is transported, stored and integrated into airport systems.

Finished SAF (Blended & Certified)

Ready-to-use aviation fuel - This variant is blended with conventional jet fuel and recertified according to ASTM D1655 or DEF STAN 91-091. It can be used without restrictions in all aircraft and refueling systems.

Process

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How it works

SAF is produced from biogenic raw materials and converted into synthetic paraffinic kerosene through industrial processing. This product forms the SAF blending component.

The blend component is then mixed with conventional aviation fuel in specified proportions, which can be up to 50% depending on the production process and certification limits.

After blending, the fuel is recertified according to the standard specifications for aviation fuel. Once certified, it enters the conventional aviation fuel supply chain and can be used without any operational differences.

FAQ

How "renewable" is SAF?

With the exception of co-processed SAF, most sustainable aviation fuels are produced from biogenic feedstocks such as biomass, alcohols and fats. Depending on the production method and raw material source, these processes enable a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions of around 80% over the entire life cycle compared to conventional jet fuel. SAFs can generally be blended with conventional fuel up to 50%, although the industry is currently working on research into higher blending ratios.

What fuel specifications apply to SAF?

SAF is subject to the ASTM D7566 standard during the component blending phase. After blending with conventional jet fuel, it is recertified according to ASTM D1655 or DEF STAN 91-091. This ensures that the finished fuel meets the same specifications as Jet A-1 and can be used in all certified aircraft and infrastructure.

Where can I buy SAF?

SAF is supplied directly by aviation fuel suppliers. It is usually available at airports, where it is stored in tank farms and distributed either directly to aircraft or via hydrant systems. MB Energy supplies SAF to major European regions, integrating itself into the airport infrastructure.

Do jet engines have to be converted in order to use SAF?

No. Once SAF is blended and certified to standard aviation fuel specifications, it is fully compatible with all aircraft engines and aviation refueling systems. No adaptations to aircraft or infrastructure are required.

Are there any restrictions on admixture at SAF?

Yes, most SAF grades can currently be blended with up to 50% conventional jet fuel, depending on the manufacturing process and certification requirements. After blending and certification, the fuel can be used universally. Unblended SAF must be handled separately and cannot be used directly.

How is SAF transported?

Certified SAF is transported via the same logistics infrastructure as conventional aviation fuel, including pipelines, tanker trucks, rail and barges. In its unmixed form, it requires segregated handling and is not usually transported via pipelines.

Are there any aspects of material compatibility to consider with SAF?

Once blended and certified, SAF has no compatibility issues with common aviation materials such as metals and approved plastics. In its unmixed form, it behaves like other paraffinic fuels and requires careful handling with regard to seals, hoses and linings.

Get in touch with us

Secure your energy supply, optimize your supply chains for aviation fuel and rely on sustainable solutions for the future of aviation. We support you with tailor-made fuel solutions, reliable infrastructure and comprehensive advice - from procurement to implementation.