Can India meet its 2027 Sustainable Aviation Fuel target without raising airfares?

India is racing to meet its 2027 CORSIA mandate requiring 1% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) blending for international flights, with targets rising to 5% by 2030. The government is finalizing a comprehensive SAF policy covering production, infrastructure, and carbon accounting. However, the main hurdle is cost: SAF currently costs two to four times more than conventional jet fuel, and fuel makes up 35-40% of airline operating expenses. Airlines may initially absorb the extra cost, but as blending mandates increase, some fare increases are likely unless domestic production scales quickly. India has abundant agricultural waste and biomass feedstocks that could support local SAF manufacturing, potentially creating new revenue for farmers and reducing fossil fuel imports. The draft policy is expected to clarify infrastructure responsibilities and certification standards. The real test will be execution over the next 18 months. Success depends on building reliable supply chains, airport blending facilities, and a national SAF registry before the 2027 deadline. If India can scale production and lower costs, SAF could become both an environmental win and an economic opportunity without derailing affordable air travel.