Thanks to a $6.5 million grant from the Washington State Legislature, Paine Field will be the new home of a world-leading Research and Development Center focused on Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF).
“This is a foundational component of our long-term commitment to generate new jobs in environmentally sustainable sectors and help decarbonize aviation,” said Snohomish County Executive and Puget Sound Regional Council Vice-President Dave Somers.
The purpose of the center is to lead the world in reducing the need for carbon-based fuels in aircraft, one of the environmental goals in PSRC’s Regional Economic Strategy.
“This center will play a vital role in reducing the environmental impact of air travel,” said Washington State Senator Marko Liias (21st Legislative District) who helped secure funding for the center as part of the state 2023-2025 Transportation Budget.
Washington State University will create the world’s first SAF repository at the center, which will meet a global need for reference samples to support research. Samples would be collected, tested at small scales and distributed at a scale needed for widespread use in the largest aircraft.
“SAF is in critical demand around the world. This industry-led Center will accelerate aviation’s global fight against climate change and strengthen Washington’s reputation as a leader in aerospace innovation,” said Emily Wittman, President of the Aerospace Futures Alliance and PSRC Economic Development District Board member.
PSRC’s Regional Economic Strategy provides a strategic blueprint for regional economic success. The strategy’s three main goal areas are: Expanding Economic Opportunity, Maintaining Global Competitiveness, and Sustaining Quality of Life.
