Jet Fuel Hits $4.18/Gal, XCF Global’s 38M-Gal SAF Plant Restarts in June
Jet fuel averaged $4.18 per gallon on May 5, a 33% rise year-over-year from $2.97, exacerbating airline operating costs. XCF Global’s 38 million-gallon-per-year New Rise Renewables Reno SAF plant will resume operations in June 2026, enhancing domestic aviation fuel resilience.
1. Elevated Jet Fuel Prices
The Argus US Jet Fuel Index reached $4.18 per gallon on May 5, marking a 33% increase year-over-year from a $2.97 average through early April. Sustained high fuel costs remain one of airlines’ largest variable expenses, influencing route economics, ticket pricing and profit margins.
2. Reno SAF Facility Upgrade and Restart
XCF Global’s New Rise Renewables facility in Reno holds a 38 million-gallon annual nameplate capacity for sustainable aviation fuel. The plant is completing planned upgrades and is slated to resume full operations in June 2026, aiming to inject additional domestic SAF volume.
3. Implications for Aviation Sector
Elevated conventional jet fuel prices and supply uncertainties are driving airlines and fuel buyers to seek alternative sources. Domestic SAF production offers potential cost stability, supply diversification and reduced exposure to volatile international markets.
4. Sustainability Certification and CORSIA Readiness
XCF Global has established chain-of-custody and sustainability certification systems to meet customer reporting needs and facilitate CORSIA-eligible SAF documentation. These measures support commercial readiness by ensuring traceability and compliance for lower-emission fuel deliveries.