ReFuelEU Aviation is one of the most pressing regulatory challenges for Business Aviation and a central issue being tackled by the European Business Aviation Association (EBAA).
Today at the European Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (EBACE), an insightful panel discussion entitled ‘ReFuelEU Aviation: Compliance vs Operational Reality’ addressed Europe’s latest anti-tankering mandate and what it means for Business Aviation operators.
Held on EBACE’s new AIROPS stage, the session was moderated by Jasmina Orsic, Head of Aviation Sustainability at Azzera, and joined by Christian Arenz of ETSverification, Martina Becher of SPARFELL, Michael Pazourek of ABS Jet, and Federico Ricci Buffetti of the European Business Aviation Association (EBAA).
The discussion centred on the complex implications of the ReFuelEU regulation, which mandates specific refuelling requirements to reduce carbon emissions. Panellists highlighted the administrative and logistical challenges the requirements impose, particularly for operators at airports with limited refuelling infrastructure or tight turnaround times, and how to ensure their fuel data is complete for accurate reporting.
According to Becher: “It’s been a challenge to get fuel data in an extractable format, especially on smaller aircraft where, even if you plan conservatively, the aircraft often reaches the maximum tank capacity.”
Pazourek added: “We are in favour of the initiative but sometimes it’s very difficult to comply. We’ve written manuals explaining how our business understands fuel policy, and to teach our staff and pilots how to stay compliant.”
Ricci Buffetti emphasised the EBAA’s proactive approach in supporting its members: “Operators’ relationships with authorities is a key part for the success of this regulation. The EBAA has set up a dedicated working group. Through this, we’ve developed a comprehensive anti-tankering compliance guide and are actively advocating for regulatory adjustments to better align with the operational realities of Business Aviation in Europe.”
The session concluded with a call to action for operators to engage with advocacy efforts across Europe to ensure the ReFuelEU regulation supports sustainable aviation without compromising operational efficiency.
For more information on EBAA’s initiatives and to access the compliance guide, please visit ebaa.org
