In this episode, we speak with Robb Etnyre, General Manager at Truckee Tahoe Airport (KTRK), a pioneering general aviation airport that has become the first in the world to fully transition to sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). Located near the Sierra Nevada mountains of California, Truckee Tahoe Airport serves a diverse range of private and business aviation customers.

Etnyre shares the story of KTRK’s decision to power 100% of their flights using SAF, driven by the impacts of climate change witnessed firsthand in the region, such as severe wildfires and smoke. He highlights the airport’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint, particularly its scope 3 emissions from jet fuel sales, which amount to approximately 500,000 gallons annually. 

Etnyre also discusses the role of stakeholder engagement and education in the successful adoption of SAF. He also shares the customer response to Truckee Tahoe Airport’s SAF transition, noting the general support from most operators who align with the airport’s sustainability goals.

Etnyre delves into the challenges of ensuring a reliable and cost-effective SAF supply chain for small airports, while also highlighting their potential in driving significant change in the industry by sending strong market signals for low-carbon fuels.

If you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversation we had with Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, about the sustainability initiatives at one of the largest airports in the world. Check it out here.

Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry’s challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air’. Click here to learn more.

Feel free to reach out via email to podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.

Links & More:

Truckee Tahoe Airport 

Sustainable Aviation Fuel - Truckee Tahoe Airport

Truckee Tahoe Airport Goes All-in on Sustainable Aviation Fuel - Airport Improvement 

Avfuel expands SAF reach with supply at Truckee Tahoe Airport District - Bioenergy International 

How do you decarbonise a major airport? - SimpliFlying