Paris Air Lab 2023: innovation supporting decarbonization

“Yes, we can!” Olivier Andriès, Safran’s CEO, sent out an optimistic message in his keynote speech at the Paris Air Lab prior to a discussion on sustainable fuels. In the center of this 1,000 sqm space dedicated to innovation in aviation decarbonization, Olivier Andriès gave an overview of Safran’s objectives in this field, while stressing the progress made by the entire aeronautics community over the previous four years. He stressed that “Many things have changed since the previous Paris Air Show but much remains to be done so we must act now.”

In his speech, Olivier Andriès outlined the three pillars of Safran’s decarbonization strategy: the development of disruptive technologies (in particular with the RISE program), the introduction of sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs) and electrification.” And we always remain focused on our top priority: safety. In this context, the challenges of the certification of our products are crucial.”

The role of hydrogen shall play in aviation decarbonization, the architecture of RISE, the cost of decarbonization for the various stakeholders (equipment manufacturers, airlines and passengers), Safran’s CEO then answered questions from the public on these different subjects before ending on a confident and determined note : “Our teams are very enthusiastic and ready to meet the many challenges which are before us”, his last message being: “We must dare to innovate“!

Olivier Andriès opening remarks were a significant contribution to the discussion on “Decarbonized fuel for aviation”  with participants Florence Delprat-Jannaud - IFP Énergies Nouvelles (IFPEN), Mathieu Soulas - TotalEnergies, Pierre Hamelin - Air Liquide and Jonathan Wood -- NESTE. The panel discussed subjects such as aviation decarbonization issues and specifics, hydrogen’s role and the different types of sustainable fuels.