Hovednyhet
Unlocking the potential – Bodø as a hub for green aviation innovation
Last week, Bodø took further steps into the future of aviation by hosting its third high-level seminar on Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), gathering key players from across the green aviation landscape. The event, arranged in collaboration between Energi i Nord, Deutsche Aircraft and BRUS, brought together airlines, policymakers, fuel producers, researchers, and regional stakeholders to explore how Northern Norway can lead the way in climate-friendly air travel.
With the construction of Bodø’s new airport well underway, the timing couldn’t be more relevant. The region is now uniquely positioned to become a national frontrunner in sustainable aviation, both in infrastructure and innovation. The SAF seminar underlined that opportunity — while also identifying the steps needed to turn ambition into action.
A region ready to fly green
The seminar focused on three main themes: the policy framework needed to scale SAF, the technological developments in sustainable fuels, and the regional opportunities that arise from combining aviation, energy, and innovation.
Keynote speakers included representatives from Avinor, Widerøe, and the Norwegian Ministry of Transport. They emphasized the need for long-term collaboration, clearer regulatory pathways, and regional strategies that make SAF adoption economically viable.
A comment from BRUS CEO, Harald Willumsen Østbø:
“Bodø is more than just building a new airport — we’re building the next generation of aviation. What we see now is a convergence of opportunity: the physical transformation of the city, a new energy transition, and a chance to lead on green aviation. The SAF seminar showed us that the willingness is there — now we need to coordinate the actions. This is about jobs, innovation, and putting Bodø on the map.”
Project manager Kim J. Andreassen (BRUS) presenting available commercial areas for green aviation
Declaration for SAF in Northern Norway
One of the most important outcomes of the seminar was the signing of a joint declaration on SAF. Public and private stakeholders from across the aviation, energy, and public sectors agreed on a shared commitment to accelerate the development of sustainable aviation fuel in Northern Norway.
The declaration outlines ambitions to:
- Support SAF infrastructure and supply chain development
- Explore production opportunities using local renewable energy
- Facilitate regulatory and financial frameworks
- Position Bodø as a national testbed for green aviation
Declaration signed by the attending companies and later handed over to the EU Comission
This declaration marks a milestone in aligning efforts and will serve as a foundation for further collaboration and project development.
Building momentum for green skies
The third SAF Seminar in Bodø has now firmly established itself as a key national meeting place for stakeholders and changemakers in green aviation. With growing attendance and engagement each year, it’s clear that the interest and urgency around sustainable air travel is only increasing.
Despite global political and economic uncertainty challenging the pace of SAF implementation, one thing remains clear: climate change is real, and the urgency to act has never been greater. As the EU Commissioner noted during the seminar, “We’re not going to panic — we’re going to make a cup of tea and calmly assess the situation.”
With strong political will, committed industry players, and regional momentum, the Bodø region is uniquely positioned to become a global frontrunner in green aviation. The runway is already under construction — now it’s time for takeoff.
