Trinity’s Sustainable Aviation Fuel research unit gets new home 

Posted on: 12 July 2024

The Trinity College Dublin Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Research Facility has gained a new home with the formal opening of SMBC Aviation Capital’s new global headquarters at Fitzwilliam 28, in Dublin’s city centre, which will also host the Trinity facility. 

SMBC Aviation Capital is supporting the research facility – which is co-funded by Ryanair and Science Foundation Ireland – to support the future sustainability of the aviation sector.

Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, Paschal Donohoe attended the formal opening. 

Trinity's Dean of Research Sinéad Ryan (pictured above with the team in their new lab) said: "I am delighted to be here to mark the opening of this very important facility. Sustainable aviation fuels are widely accepted to be the principal measure by which to decarbonise aviation and collaboration with stakeholders is critical to the success of SAF research. Thanks to SMBC Aviation Capital for hosting Trinity's SAF research facility at their new headquarters - this state of the art research infrastructure is crucial for delivering excellent, impactful research. We are all looking forward to seeing the impact this facility will have on making air travel more sustainable." 

SMBC Aviation Capital CEO Peter Barrett said “This is a hugely significant day in the history and growth of SMBC Aviation Capital. Our new and sustainable global headquarters located in the heart of Dublin represents not just our commitment to Ireland, but also this country’s pre-eminence as the global hub for aircraft leasing.” 

“Aviation has a strong heritage in Ireland and we in SMBC Aviation Capital are determined to play our part in securing a vibrant future for the sector. Our new headquarters is the physical embodiment of our commitment to Ireland and our ambition for the future.” 

The SAF research facility will focus on the research, development and deployment of sustainable aviation fuels.  

Trinity's work on SAFs now involves four main projects with a shared goal of making air travel better for the planet.   

 Trinity is the delivery partner for the ‘prescreening' service of the EU SAF Clearing House managed by the EU Aviation Safety Authority and helps new SAF producers understand and stick to the strict rules of the ASTM D4054 fuel evaluation process, making sure their fuel is safe and high quality.  

The Ryanair Sustainable Aviation Research Centre covers several research areas, looking at how to cut down greenhouse gases from planes and exploring new technologies for cleaner flying.  

A partnership with Aircraft Leasing Ireland focuses on making SAF in Ireland, in tandem with the University of Limerick. 

ENDS 

• Tags:
• Environment
• Research