Japan Airlines and Airbus Drive Unprecedented Growth in Sustainable Aviation by Fueling the MORISORA Project with Innovation and Large-Scale Bioethanol Production

Japan Airlines (JAL) and Airbus are propelling the future of sustainable aviation by significantly advancing the MORISORA Project, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at producing bioethanol-based sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) from domestic wood biomass. By joining forces with Nippon Paper Industries, Sumitomo Corporation, and Green Earth Institute (GEI), these industry giants are accelerating the development and large-scale production of SAF, setting the stage for a cleaner, greener aviation industry. Their collaboration marks a major step in Japan’s drive to reduce carbon emissions and foster innovation in aviation fuel, with the goal of transforming how aviation meets its sustainability targets while revitalizing local communities through circular economy practices.

Strategic Collaboration to Advance Sustainable Aviation Fuel

Japan Airlines (JAL), Airbus, Nippon Paper Industries, Sumitomo Corporation, and Green Earth Institute (GEI) have joined forces to accelerate the production and adoption of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) derived from bioethanol made from domestic wood. Through a newly signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), these companies will collaborate to transform the aviation industry with low-carbon fuel solutions.

MORISORA Project: Laying the Foundation for Domestic SAF

In February 2023, Nippon Paper, Sumitomo Corporation, and Green Earth Institute (GEI) initiated the “MORISORA Project” to investigate the viability of producing bioethanol from wood biomass. By February 2025, they solidified their commitment by agreeing to form a joint venture dedicated to the large-scale production and distribution of this renewable fuel. With Japan Airlines (JAL) and Airbus now joining the initiative, the project is set to accelerate the adoption of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and enhance the domestic supply network.

Commitment to Reducing Carbon Emissions

The five companies will harness their expertise to reduce greenhouse gas emissions across the entire SAF production process, from raw material procurement to final distribution. Their strategy centers on utilizing wood-based bioethanol with a low Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) score, ensuring compliance with the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA). By integrating a circular economy model—”cutting, using, planting, and growing” trees—the initiative will drive regional economic revitalization, create jobs, and boost sustainable fuel availability in Japan.

JAL and Airbus Spearhead SAF Integration

JAL is committed to leading the shift toward domestic SAF, setting a bold target of replacing 10% of all onboard fuel with SAF by 2030. The airline will bridge the gap between SAF producers and industry stakeholders to develop a robust supply network. Meanwhile, Airbus will play a crucial role in securing CORSIA certification for the woody biomass used in this project, reinforcing the aviation sector’s commitment to net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Japan Airlines (JAL) and Airbus are driving unprecedented growth in sustainable aviation by advancing the MORISORA Project, focusing on large-scale production of bioethanol-based sustainable aviation fuel from domestic wood biomass, boosting innovation and carbon reduction in the industry.

A Sustainable Future Through Innovation

Together, these five companies will drive innovation in sustainable aviation, foster resource circulation, and contribute to a decarbonized future while revitalizing local communities.