Cargo Goes Green as Amazon Joins Forces with Neste

E-commerce group partners with Neste to supply millions of gallons of sustainable aviation fuel at two California airports

18 Jun 2025

Amazon is putting its cargo fleet on a cleaner flight path. The company has struck a deal with renewable fuel producer Neste to power operations at San Francisco and Ontario airports with 2.5 million gallons of sustainable aviation fuel through 2025. It will also be the first to bring SAF to Ontario International, a symbolic step in making greener jet fuel a routine part of freight.

Unlike conventional jet fuel, SAF is made from waste oils and residues and can cut carbon emissions by as much as 80 percent. Until now, most airlines using it have been focused on passengers. Amazon's decision marks one of the clearest signals yet that cargo carriers are ready to follow suit.

At San Francisco, the fuel will move through existing pipelines, while Ontario will depend on renewable-diesel-powered trucks to keep emissions low across the supply chain. For Neste, one of the world's leading renewable fuel companies, the deal highlights how SAF is shifting from limited trials to everyday operations. The firm aims to produce more than 2 million tons annually by 2027.

The ripple effect could be significant. UPS, DHL, and other freight giants may soon face pressure to match Amazon's pace, while passenger airlines risk looking slow to adapt. Expanding SAF access to new airports also chips away at one of the industry's biggest barriers: infrastructure.

The hurdles are far from gone. SAF remains more expensive than kerosene, and millions of gallons barely dent the 18 billion consumed in the U.S. each year. But Amazon's willingness to shoulder higher costs suggests major players see strategic value in leading the shift.

This isn't just a green talking point. If cargo carriers start adopting sustainable fuels at scale, the air freight industry could accelerate aviation's clean-energy transition faster than many expected.