A cognitive mapping approach to analyse stakeholders’ perspectives on sustainable aviation fuels

Abstract Despite sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) provides a viable option to decarbonise global aviation, the fuel transition to the commercial level is stagnant. Our paper investigates the key barriers and opportunities in upscaling the SAF consumption perceived by industrial stakeholders along the SAF supply chain. The primary interview data of stakeholders is analysed using the cognitive mapping approach. We contribute to the literature by developing multi-layer cognitive maps of stakeholder groups followed by a composite map to investigate the SAF development process. Though there is a common goal of lowering emissions, producers, airlines, distributors, and governmental and other advocating agencies map their distinct paths. Furthermore, our composite cognitive map presents strategic levers which are critical in SAF development and are shared by all shareholder groups. Such an understanding of SAF development is instrumental in developing progressive strategies for expediting the transition to SAF that balances environmental sustainability and economic benefits.